Who was the first prime minister of Canada?

The story behind the answer

Sir John A. Macdonald was Canada’s first prime minister, taking office at Confederation on July 1, 1867. A Father of Confederation, he led the creation of the new Dominion and later oversaw nation‑building projects like the Canadian Pacific Railway during his two terms (1867–1873; 1878–1891).

To avoid mix-ups: Alexander Mackenzie was the second PM, John Abbott the third, and Robert Borden led during World War I. Memory tip: think “Macdonald made” Canada—first to build the federal system—on July 1. His legacy is notable and complex: while he helped unite the country, his government also enacted policies that harmed Indigenous peoples, a crucial part of understanding Canada’s past.