Wikipedia article of the day for June 8, 2026
The Types Riot was the destruction of William Mackenzie's printing press by members of the Family Compact, the ruling elite of Upper Canada, in York (modern Toronto). Mackenzie (pictured) created the Colonial Advocate and published editorials in the newspaper accusing the Family Compact of incompetence and embezzlement. On the evening of June 8, 1826, between nine and fifteen rioters forced their way into the newspaper offices and destroyed property. During the event, Mackenzie's employees tried to get passersby to help stop the rioters. Bystanders refused when they saw government officials were watching the spectacle. Mackenzie sued the rioters and jury awarded Mackenzie 625 pounds to be paid by the defendants, a harsh settlement. Several newspapers denounced the government officials who had failed to stop the riot. Reformers viewed Mackenzie as a martyr and he remained popular for several years. Historians identify the event as a sign of weakening Tory influence in Upper Canada politics.
Comments
Post a Comment