James William Carmichael | The Canadian Encyclopedia

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James William Carmichael

James William Carmichael, shipbuilder-owner, merchant, politician (b at New Glasgow, NS 16 Dec 1819; d there 1 May 1903). Carmichael, son of New Glasgow's founder, James Carmichael, became its most prominent merchant, shipbuilder and shipowner.

James William Carmichael, shipbuilder-owner, merchant, politician (b at New Glasgow, NS 16 Dec 1819; d there 1 May 1903). Carmichael, son of New Glasgow's founder, James Carmichael, became its most prominent merchant, shipbuilder and shipowner. He supported the transition to manufacturing and in 1882 invested in Canada's first steel company, Nova Scotia Steel. A Liberal and federal MP 1867-71 and 1874-78, Carmichael's strong views against Confederation and in support of free trade brought electoral defeat in 1872, 1878, 1882 and 1896. Appointed to the Senate in 1899, he resigned in 1903.

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