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The Paul Wells Show

John Ibbitson on Pearson and Diefenbaker's great rivalry

Oct 18, 2023
John Ibbitson, Author and Globe and Mail writer, discusses his new book about the rivalry between Diefenbaker and Pearson and its impact on modern Canada. Topics include the controversies surrounding the Trans-Canada Pipeline, Pearson's strengths and shortcomings, the influence of the suburban middle class, and the Harper-Diefenbaker political rivalry.
45:44

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Diefenbaker, despite being an outsider, achieved important policy reforms such as immigration and healthcare.
  • Pearson's leadership as an opposition leader led to the implementation of policies like Medicare.

Deep dives

Diefenbaker and Pearson: The Dual Prime Ministers

The podcast episode explores the rivalry and accomplishments of John Diefenbaker and Lester Pearson, who served as Prime Ministers of Canada. The episode discusses how Diefenbaker, considered an outsider, led the Conservative Party and achieved significant policy achievements, such as immigration reform and extending healthcare. Pearson, on the other hand, served as an effective opposition leader and implemented policies like Medicare. The episode highlights their different leadership styles and the impact they had on shaping modern Canada. Additionally, it touches on the concept of the Laurentian elite and the evolving power dynamics in Canadian politics.

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