He Did Not Conquer: Benjamin Franklin's Failure to Annex Canada

In 2025 and 2026, President Donald Trump's threats to annex Canada as the 51st state have stirred alarm. These include steep tariffs on Canadian exports, pressure on trade infrastructure like the Gordie Howe Bridge, and dismissal of the border as an artificial line. Such economic coercion revives historical patterns of U.S. expansionism and raises fresh questions about Canadian sovereignty.

Long before these current tensions or James Madison's War of 1812, Benjamin Franklin pursued similar ambitions. He viewed annexing Canada as key to weakening British power. In 1776 he traveled to Montreal to persuade locals to join the American Revolution. This was one of several efforts that ultimately failed due to strong Canadian resistance.

Award-winning journalist and historian Madelaine Drohan explores this overlooked story in her book He Did Not Conquer: Benjamin Franklin’s Failure to Annex Canada. In this timely talk she explains how Franklin justified his goals, the actions he took, why they failed, and how these events from 250 years ago connect to today's U.S.-Canada relations.

This event offers valuable historical context and insights for navigating current bilateral challenges. It is a must-attend for those interested in North American history, international affairs, or defending sovereignty. Join us for an engaging presentation, thoughtful discussion, networking, and book signing.

Agenda

• 5:30 PM: Doors open. Mingle and settle in.
• 5:45 PM: Event starts. Opening remarks by CIC President.
• 5:50 PM: Presentation by Madelaine Drohan.
• 6:30 PM: Fireside chat moderated by Erin Williams (Director, Programs, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada).
• 7:00 PM: Event concludes.
• 7:00 – 7:30 PM: Networking reception and book signing (books will be available at the event for purchase).

Speakers
Madelaine Drohan is a senior fellow at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, University of Ottawa. She is a former Canada correspondent for The Economist and former foreign correspondent for The Globe and Mail. Her career covered politics, economics, and business in Africa, Asia, Canada, and Europe. Her latest book is He Did Not Conquer: Benjamin Franklin’s Failure to Annex Canada. Website: madelainedrohan.org

Erin Williams is Director, Programs, at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. She oversees programs related to Asia competencies and education, and leads the Foundation’s Canada-Asia Young Professionals Development initiative.

Tickets: $15. Limited spots. Secure yours now!
(Proceeds support CIC Vancouver programming. Thank you for joining this important conversation.)

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