New Brunswick Chapter

New Brunswick has a long, proud history of standing up for its own interests — often in the face of distant governments and decisions that failed to reflect the needs of its people.

In the 19th century, before Confederation, many in New Brunswick questioned the value of joining the Dominion of Canada. Despite political pressure and promises of railways and trade, a strong anti-Confederation movement emerged, especially in the years leading up to 1867. Led by figures like Albert James Smith, who would serve as Attorney General and Premier, many New Brunswickers feared losing control over their economy, governance, and regional identity.

After Confederation, these fears proved justified. Federal policies often favored Central Canada’s industrial centers, leaving Maritime provinces like New Brunswick with diminished political power and neglected infrastructure. The “Maritime Rights Movement” of the 1920s was a direct response to this — a campaign that called for fairer treatment, regional autonomy, and an end to economic marginalization.

Though that movement was eventually absorbed into national politics, the ideas never truly died. From rural communities to Acadian cultural leaders to modern regional advocates, voices in New Brunswick have continued to call for greater self-determination.

Today, the Maritime Unity Party carries that torch forward. We honor those who came before us by reigniting the conversation around independence — not as a protest, but as a promise. A promise that our future will be written by us, for us.

Timeline: New Brunswick's Path of Sovereignty and Self-Determination

1850s–1860s: Anti-Confederation Movement

• Many New Brunswickers oppose joining Canada, fearing loss of control over trade and governance.
  
  

• Albert James Smith, a vocal critic, leads the resistance, becoming Premier in 1865 on an anti-Confederation platform.
  
  

1867: Confederation Imposed

• Despite local opposition, New Brunswick is brought into Confederation.
  
  

• Promises of prosperity and infrastructure fall short, especially in rural and coastal areas.
  
  

1870s–1910s: Economic Decline & Marginalization

• Federal policies favor Ontario and Quebec’s industrial growth.
  
  

• New Brunswick sees stagnation in shipbuilding, rail access, and rural investment.
  
  

1920s: The Maritime Rights Movement

• A united front across NS, NB, and PEI demands:
  
  

  • Fair freight rates
    
    

  • Regional economic development
    
    

  • Political autonomy
    
    

• Movement gains traction but is diluted in federal politics.
  
  

1960s–1980s: Rural & Cultural Resistance

• Rural New Brunswickers resist centralization of services.
  
  

• Acadian and Indigenous leaders push for cultural and language rights.
  
  

1990s–2000s: Talk of Decentralization

• Political figures float ideas of more provincial autonomy in healthcare, education, and natural resources.
  
  

2020s–Today: Maritime Unity Rises

• The growing frustration with federal neglect leads to grassroots efforts to reimagine Maritime independence.
  
  

• Maritime Unity Party emerges as a direct continuation of this long tradition — committed to a peaceful, democratic path to sovereignty.