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Tommy Douglas: Keeper of the Flame

This feature documentary traces the political career of T.C. (Tommy) Douglas, former premier of Saskatchewan and leader of the New Democratic Party, who was voted the Greatest Canadian in 2004 for his devotion to social causes, his charm and his powers of persuasion. Known as the "Father of Medicare," this one-time champion boxer and fiery preacher entered politics in the 1930s and never looked back.
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This feature documentary traces the political career of T.C. (Tommy) Douglas, former premier of Saskatchewan and leader of the New Democratic Party, who was voted the Greatest Canadian in 2004 for his devotion to social causes, his charm and his powers of persuasion. Known as the "Father of Medicare," this one-time champion boxer and fiery preacher entered politics in the 1930s and never looked back.

Politics and Government - Canada All subjects
Fascinating People All channels
  • director
    Elise Swerhone
  • producer
    Adam Symansky
    Elise Swerhone
  • executive producer
    Ches Yetman
    Jan D'Arcy
  • script
    Donald Brittain
  • narrator
    Donald Brittain
  • cinematography
    Ian Elkin
    Charles Konowal
    Zoe Dirse
  • sound
    Leon Johnson
    Donald List
    Jean-Guy Normandin
  • editing
    Ian Rankin
  • sound editing
    Raymond Vermette
  • sound mixer
    Hans Peter Strobl
    Shelley Craig
  • music
    John McCulloch

Education

Ages 14 to 17

Notes

Write about the evolution of the NDP from its inception to the present. Compare and contrast Tommy Douglas with a later leader of the NDP and show how the views of the party shifted. Choose another Canadian political pioneer and write his/her biography. How do you think the economic climate of the era informed the creation of the socialist movement?

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Tommy Douglas: Keeper of the Flame
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