“We are English or French. . . and above all let's be Canadian." Born on January 11, 1815 in Glascow, Scotland, Sir John A. Macdonald became Canada's first prime minister and one of the most transcendent that Canada has ever seen. He immigrated to Canada in 1820, at the age of five, where his family, including his mother, father, and two brothers, settled in Kingston, Ontario. He spent his childhood studying at the Midland District Grammar School, where he developed his passion for the English language and, at the same time, realizing his new dream of becoming a lawyer. He was unable to attend university due to his family's financial problems; however, this did not stop him from achieving his goal. At the age of fifteen, Sir John A. Macdonald entered a law firm as a junior, and through his perseverance and able personality was called to the bar in 1836. He then began his legal practice with wide success as commercial. lawyer in Toronto and Kingston. His commendable efforts as a lawyer were well recognized by many and he became very popular and was considered a positive leader who could make a difference. In 1844 he was elected to represent Kingston in the Legislative Assembly of Canada. In 1854 he helped create the Conservative Party and on July 1, 1867, Confederation Day, he became Canada's first prime minister. Sir John A. Macdonald contributed to Canadian history in a significant way as his actions had a positive impact on Canada, helping it develop and prosper. First, by building the world's first transcontinental railway, Sir John A. Macdonald contributed to Canada's economy and efficiency. One of the main arguments of the British C...... middle of the document ...... ommunications.com/bygeorge/?p=961>Government of Canada. Legacy of Sir John A Macdonald. April 29, 2005. Canadian Library and Archives. May 29, 2011James-white, Don. Sir John A Macdonald's Heritage Views. March 03, 2005. Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. May 29, 2011Hughes, Jimmy. The Honorable Sir John A Macdonald. January 29, 2001. First among equals. May 29, 2011James-white, Don. Sir John A Macdonald's Views of Heritage. March 03, 2005. Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. May 29, 2011Sanderson, Curtis. Famous Canadian Quotes to Remember. September 26, 2010. Quotes for Canadian Life Co. May 29 2011