Newfoundland's Entry into Confederation National Historic Event

Newfoundland's entry into Confederation was designated a national historic event in 1958.

Historical importance: Led by Joseph R. Smallwood, Newfoundland became 10^th province in 1949.

Commemorative plaque: Confederation Building, Prince Philip Drive and Higgins Line, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador ^{Footnote 1}

Newfoundland entered Confederation on 31 March 1949. Though Europeans were active here from the early 16th century, recognition as a colony did not come until 1824. Self-government and Dominion status followed but these were placed in abeyance in 1933 when Government by Commission was instituted. In 1948 a national convention proposed a return to Responsible Government but a spirited campaign led by J.R. Smallwood convinced a small majority to accept union with Canada which 19th century voters had decisively rejected. Sir Albert Walsh was the first Lieutenant-Governor and Smallwood the First Premier.

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