Battle of Batoche
Batoche, on the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatchewan, Canada
What happened
The Métis-led Provisional Government of Saskatchewan, led by Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont with First Nations allies, fought Canadian troops under General Frederick Middleton. The Métis of Saskatchewan had sent many petitions to the government about their land claims, with little answer. In 1885 they formed their own government at Batoche, a village of about 500 people. Over four days, Middleton's larger, better-armed force surrounded and captured the village.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was the decisive battle of the North-West Resistance of 1885, and the Métis provisional government collapsed. Louis Riel remains one of the most debated figures in Canadian history.
What came next
Riel surrendered on 15 May 1885, was tried in Regina, and his sentence was carried out on 16 November 1885. Today Manitoba marks Louis Riel Day each February.
Did you know?
At Batoche National Historic Site, guides in historical clothing show visitors what Métis life was like between 1860 and 1900.
Timeline
- 1884Riel returns to Saskatchewan at the Métis' request.
- 9-12 May 1885Canadian troops capture Batoche.
- 15 May 1885Riel surrenders.
- 1923Batoche becomes a National Historic Site.
- 2007Manitoba begins marking Louis Riel Day.