Seeds of Fire: A People’s Chronology

Recalling events that happened on this day in history.
Memories of struggle, resistance and persistence.

Compiled by Ulli Diemer

March 19, 1885
The NorthWest Rebellion: Métis in Saskatchewan establish a provisional government, with Louis Riel as political leader and Gabriel Dumont as military leader. Riel hopes that the Canadian government will agree to enter into negotiations leading to the settling of Métis grievances and recognition of Métis rights. However, instead of negotiating, the Canadian government sends in the military. The Northwest Rebellion ends with the defeat of the Métis and their Cree allies. Riel is subsequently put on trial for treason, and hanged. Related Topics: M‚tis – M‚tis History
March 19, 1915
The United States invades Mexico with an army of 10,000 men commanded by General John Pershing. Related Topics: Intervention – Mexico – U.S. Imperialism – U.S./Mexico Relations
March 19, 2011
NATO forces begin bombing Libya, ostensibly acting under a UN resolution to impose a no-fly zone to ‘protect civilians’, actually with the intention of overthrowing the Libyan government headed by Muammar Gaddafi. Related Topics: Imperialism – Intervention – Libya – NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)