Thomas Douglas, the Fifth Earl of Selkirk (1770–1820), was a complex man of his times, whose passions left an indelible mark on Canadian history. A product of the Scottish Enlightenment and witness to the French Revolution, he dedicated his fortune and energy to the vision of a new colony at the centre of North America. His final legacy, the Red River Settlement, led to the eventual end of the dominance of the fur trade and began the demographic and social transformation of western Canada. The product of three decades of research, this is the definitive biography of Lord Selkirk. Bumsted’s passionate prose and thoughtful analysis illuminate not only the man, but also the political and economic realities of the British empire at the turn of the nineteenth century. He analyzes Selkirk’s position within these realities, showing how his paternalistic attitudes informed his “social experiments” in colonization and translated into unpredictable, and often tragic, outcomes. Bumsted also provides extensive detail on the complexities of colonization, the Scottish Enlightenment, Scottish peerage, the fur trade, the Red River settlement, and early British-Canadian politics.

In 'The Romantic Settlement of Lord Selkirk's Colonists. The Pioneers of Manitoba,' George Bryce delves into the history of the early settlers in Manitoba, focusing on their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Through detailed accounts and vivid descriptions, Bryce captures the essence of the romanticized settlement period, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of these pioneers. His prose is elegant and engaging, providing readers with a sense of the time and place that shaped Manitoba's early history. The book is a valuable resource for those interested in Canadian pioneer history, offering a unique perspective on the hardships and adventures faced by the settlers in the region. George Bryce's meticulous research and captivating storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of Manitoba's settlement and the individuals who paved the way for future generations.