The Northwest Rebellion and the Trial of Louis Riel
While Regina grew and prospered, the "Riel Rebellion" also known as the "Northwest Rebellion"
developed north of Regina at Batoche. The Metis of Saskatchewan, unhappy with government
policies invited Louis Riel to help them. Riel had established a provisional government for the
Metis in the Red River area of Manitoba 15 years earlier. In 1885, he did the same for the
Saskatchewan Metis, with headquarters at Batoche. The Canadian government viewed the
actions of the Metis as a revolt.
Clashes with government troops led to a final battle at Batoche. The Metis were defeated and
Riel surrendered. Riel was brought to Regina where he was tried for treason, found guilty and
hanged on November 16, 1885.
