Social Divisions 

Socially, the rebellions showed deep divisions in Lower Canada. Most of the population was French-speaking farmers, while much of the political and economic power was held by an English-speaking elite connected to the government and business interests. Many French Canadians felt that they had less influence in government and business, even though they made up the majority of the population. They believed they were often excluded from important positions and decision-making. 

The Catholic Church traditionally supported the colonial government and encouraged order and loyalty. However, some reformers criticized the Church for not supporting political change strongly enough.   

As tensions grew in the 1830s, more radical groups began to organize. In 1837, young Patriotes formed a group called the Fils de la Liberté (Sons of Liberty) to promote reform and sometimes more direct action. In response, loyalist supporters of the British government created their own group, the Doric Club, to defend British rule and oppose the Patriotes. Clashes between these groups increased tensions in Montreal. These social and political divisions made compromise difficult. By 1837, conflict between reformers and loyalists had moved beyond debate in the Assembly and into the streets.

Changing Economics and Tensions 

By the 1830s, the population of Lower Canada was growing quickly. Many families depended on farming, but farmland was becoming crowded. In some seigneuries, land was divided into smaller and smaller pieces, making it harder for families to earn enough to survive. Because there were few other jobs available outside farming, many young people struggled to find work. This added to frustration in rural areas. 

The colonial government’s economic policies also added to these problems. Britain controlled trade in the colonies and made decisions that mostly benefited British businesses. The colonies were expected to supply raw materials, such as timber and grain, to Britain while buying manufactured goods from British factories. Many people in Lower Canada felt that this system limited opportunities for local businesses and prevented the colony from developing its own industries.

As a result, some reformers encouraged people to take action. They promoted boycotts of British goods, supported the creation of local manufacturing, and sometimes participated in smuggling goods across the border from the United States. These actions were not just about making money—they also reflected a desire for more economic independence and control over their own lives.

Economic hardship combined with political frustration and social inequality created a tense environment. Farmers, workers, and reformers felt their needs and voices were ignored by the government and by the British elite who controlled trade and decision-making. This economic pressure helped push the population toward supporting the Patriotes and other reform movements, which eventually led to open conflict in 1837.