The heated debate over historical figures has reached another Canadian icon, this time targeting Sir Matthew Begbie, British Columbia's first chief justice. Known as 'the hanging judge' to some and a foundational legal pioneer to others, Begbie's complex legacy is now at the center of Canada's ongoing culture wars.
The Man Behind the Controversy
Appointed as BC's chief justice in 1858, Matthew Begbie served during the turbulent gold rush era when law and order were often scarce commodities. Supporters celebrate him as a courageous jurist who traveled dangerous circuits to deliver justice across vast territories. They point to his fluency in multiple Indigenous languages and his reputation for fairness in many cases.
Why Activists Want His Name Removed
Critics focus on Begbie's role in several controversial events, particularly the 1864 Chilcotin War where five Indigenous chiefs were executed following trials he presided over. Modern activists argue these actions make him unworthy of public commemoration, joining the growing list of historical figures being reassessed through contemporary ethical lenses.
The Battle Over Memory
The controversy extends to multiple landmarks bearing Begbie's name, including:
- Mount Begbie in Revelstoke
- Begbie Falls near Nelson
- Various streets and schools across BC
This isn't the first time Begbie's legacy has been contested. Previous generations have grappled with how to remember this complex figure, but current social justice movements have intensified the scrutiny.
A Deeper Historical Context
Historical defenders note that Begbie was often more progressive than his contemporaries. He frequently challenged colonial authorities and showed respect for Indigenous legal traditions. His detailed journals reveal a man constantly wrestling with the challenges of administering justice on Canada's wild frontier.
As Canada continues to confront its colonial past, the debate over Matthew Begbie represents more than just one man's legacy—it's about how we remember, who we celebrate, and what stories we choose to tell about our nation's formation.
