The Partition Principle
Remapping Quebec after Separation

McAlpine, Trevor

Publisher:  ECW Press
Pages:  80pp   ISBN:  1550222910
Resource Type:  Book
Cx Number:  CX5644

Considers the question: if Canada is divisible, then why not Quebec? McAlpine argues that Quebec cannot separate from Canada and expect to retain its present borders. He maps out the specifics of how Quebec might be partitioned in the event of separation, and devotes special attention to aboriginal land claims and the status of Montreal.

Abstract:  More people than ever are asking: if Canada is divisible, why not Quebec? The question of partition is one of those rare issues that could really change the political and geographic landscapes of Quebec. This straightforward account of the history and future of the idea of partition will be an invaluable resource for those who want to understand the pros, cons, and various possibilities of the partition option. McAlpine argues that Quebec cannot separate from Canada and expect to retain its present borders. The Partition Principle is not an analysis of the Quebec separation movement, nor does it explore what, if any, modifications are needed to the Canadian constitution or governmental administrative arrangements to "renew federalism." In exploring the partition option, McAlpine neither seeks to legitimize brinkmanship games nor puts forth a call to arms. He simply examines partition as a strategy to be enacted only if all other strategies to unite Canada fail. He maps out the specifics of how Quebec might be partitioned in the event of separation, and devotes special attention to aboriginal land claims and the status of Montreal.

Subject Headings

• Aboriginal Land Claims
• Aboriginal Rights
• Canadian Politics
• Montreal, Quebec
• Quebec Partition
• Quebec Separatism
• Secession
• Self-Determination