In Search of R.B. Bennett

by Peter B. Waite

Writing a life of Bennett, who reportedly destroyed his correspondence every seven years, presents challenges for the biographer. Yet, as P.B. Waite shows, Bennett's lasting contributions to Canada are beyond doubt. He describes Bennett's bold initiatives, including his attempt to introduce unemployment insurance and a minimum wage, as well as his founding of the Bank of Canada and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation - achieved in the teeth of opposition from banking and media magnates. Waite also contemplates Bennett's friendships, his relationships, and his lifelong bachelorhood, shedding new light on his life and personality. With warmth, wit, and a deep knowledge of its subject, In Search of R.B. Bennett brings Bennett the man - his penchants, prejudices, weaknesses, and strengths - before the reader.

Genres: History, Canada, Politics, Biography

392 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2012

Reviews

[Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting fellow with a work ethic to be respected! Was fun to see many parallels with present-day 2025. There was much talk about tariffs, American encroachment on Canada, price fixing, corporate greed, etc. History repeats itself. Bennett strongly resisted such encroachment, though perhaps with a little too much love for British imperialism in the end. This time in Canadian history is too often forgotten and this book is a well researched reminder of this history, and I think Bennett was an underrated PM. More of a "Red Tory" who believed in sensible governmental programs and social assistance such as EI. Over-reliance on laissez-faire capitalism is what leads to stuff like the Great Depression, which Bennett had the thankless job of managing in Canada. Taking off one star because the parliamentary minutiae can be a tad boring to read, at times, except for the most devoted scholars of Canadian government.