Regional Nationalism or National Mobilization? A Brief Social History of the Development of Métis Political Organization in Canada, 1815-2011

Written By Siomonn Pulla

My chapter in this book builds on Joe Sawchuk’s substantial contributions to the field of Métis studies and John Weinstein’s more current examination of Métis nationalism. It examines the relationship between the historic establishment and contemporary organization of Métis associations and their intensification during the late 1800s and early 1900s. I explore the development of Métis organizations in response to historical circumstances, cultural survival, and political necessity. The chapter also  highlights the shift from early pre-confederation Nation-to-Nation Métis relations to relationships based on the framework of the Indian Act that begin to emerge during the mid-1800s.

This chapter combines my years of professional experience working  on Indigenous policy related research with my extensive scholarly background teaching, researching and presenting on issues related to the history of Indigenous-Settler relationships in Canada. 

Pulla, S. (2013). Regional nationalism or national mobilization? A socio-political analysis of the history of the development of Métis political organization in Canada, 1815–2005. The Métis in Canada. Chris Adams (Ed.). University of Alberta Press.

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Siomonn Pulla

Dr. Siomonn Pulla is a seasoned scholar-practitioner specializing in collaborative research, Indigenous-Settler relations, and Indigenous rights, with a focus on fostering sustainable socio-economic development models and meaningful relationships. His extensive portfolio encompasses ethnohistorical and collaborative research projects pivotal to comprehensive land claims, resource development, and policy initiatives. Working coast to coast to coast in Canada, Dr. Pulla engages with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit communities, the corporate sector, and government agencies, delving into archival analysis, historical documentation, oral histories, museum collections and policy governance. Beyond his research, he shares his insights through teaching university courses on applied and qualitative research methodologies, and interdisciplinary theoretical paradigms, drawing from firsthand experiences to tackle pressing issues at the intersection of Indigenous rights, decolonization, and Indigenous-Settler relations. Siomonn’s work exemplifies his commitment to translating academic scholarship into tangible outcomes, driving positive change, and fostering understanding in society.

https://www.siomonnpulla.com
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