Trudeau’s Walk in the Snow: A Reflection on 40 Years Since Pierre Trudeau’s Resignation as Prime Minister

As Canada marks the 40th anniversary of Pierre Trudeau‘s iconic ‘walk in the snow,’ a momentous decision that led to his resignation as prime minister after 16 years in power, reflections are drawn to the current political landscape under his son, Justin Trudeau.

Pierre Trudeau’s departure in 1984 bears similarities to the challenges faced by his son today, as he was met with significant public discontent and a shift in the political climate.

Unlike the state of modern Canada, the nation in 1984, despite facing economic downturn with high unemployment and inflation, showcased higher home affordability, robust housing strategies, and steady immigration policies under Pierre Trudeau’s governance.

During Trudeau’s era, Canada saw a peak in homebuilding, lower immigration numbers, and a military that, although reduced in size, maintained a better financial standing compared to the current state of Canadian Armed Forces.

Political scandals were also prevalent in the past, with patronage appointments and fiscal irresponsibility under Pierre Trudeau sparking public scrutiny, yet did not reach the levels of controversy witnessed in recent years.

The decline in Canadian productivity over the years, original stance on the multi-culturalism in Canada, and the trend of mounting debt in the nation, were distinct features under the Trudeau leadership, setting the pace for the country’s trajectory.