Quebec Tercentenary

The stamps from my album pictured here (catalogue values of $7) is part of a series of eight stamps (catalogue numbers 96-103) that I plan to post separately. These are the first really interesting set of commemorative stamps that Canada issued, and are very valuable, at least in mint condition. 


These stamps are referred to as the "Quebec Tecentenary" issue (the 300th anniversary of Quebec). In French, that translates as "IIIe centenaire de Quebec": I say, translates, because the whole idea for the celebration was an English one. The Governor General at the time, an Englishman named Earl Grey, decided that a celebration of Quebec would help bring the nation together. Prime Minister Laurier was always interested in encouraging compromise between English and French and was convinced to give his support to the idea.


The first stamp in the series is of the Prince and Princess of Wales (future King George V and his wife). Why are they on the first stamp to celebrate the 300th birthday of Quebec? Well, because they were making a Royal visit to Canada at the time and the celebration was programmed around their schedule. 


Of course, everyone in Quebec loved this... the British monarchy being the main attraction at a supposed celebration of Quebec. Probably wouldn't have happened if Quebec planned it... Do you think this succeeded in promoting national unity?