One of the most controversial figures in Canadian history, Louis Riel emerged as the Métis leader in the resistance against the Canadian government in the northwest.

Riel was born in present-day Manitoba. He trained for the priesthood and studied law, but graduated from neither. In 1875 Riel was exiled from Canada because of his role in the execution of a Canadian named Thomas Scott. Riel travelled to Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. seeking support from American politicians. He returned to Quebec where he was admitted to an asylum and started calling himself "The Prophet of the New World." Riel believed that he had a calling to lead the Métis people of the Canadian northwest.

Although only one-eighth native, Louis Riel was a strong supporter of native rights, especially Métis rights. In 1884, a small group of Métis asked Riel to present their grievances concerning land claims to the Canadian government. The government constantly ignored their concerns until Riel set up a provisional government. This increased tension between the Métis and the federal authorities. In May of 1885, government troops engaged the Métis forces in a four day battle at Batoche. The government won and Riel surrendered two weeks later. He faced charges of treason.

On August 1, 1885, a jury found Riel guilty but recommended mercy. Judge Hugh Richardson sentenced him to death. The court dismissed appeals and a special re-examination of Riel's mental state found him sane. He was hanged in Regina on November 16, 1885. His execution was widely opposed in Quebec where sympathy for the French-speaking Canadian was strong.

Riel was a prolific writer of poetry and letters. He kept journals most of his life, many of which have been published. Each summer, the city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, holds an annual sports and cultural celebration called Louis Riel Day.