Gilles Grégoire, Canadian politician, co-founded the Parti Québécois (d. 2006)

Gilles Grégoire, born on May 6, 1926, in Quebec City, Quebec, emerged as a significant, albeit complex, figure in Canadian and especially Quebecois politics. The son of Joseph-Ernest Grégoire, he is primarily remembered as a key co-founder of the Parti Québécois, a pivotal political movement dedicated to Quebec's sovereignty. His political journey, marked by shifting allegiances and culminating in a severe personal downfall, reflects some of the profound political and social transformations occurring in Quebec during the latter half of the 20th century.

An Early Foray into Federal Politics

Grégoire's initial foray into the political arena saw him elected to the House of Commons of Canada in 1962. He represented the riding of Lapointe under the banner of the Ralliement des créditistes, the Quebec wing of the Social Credit Party of Canada. This party, known for its populist appeal and unique economic theories, gained considerable traction in Quebec during the early 1960s. However, Grégoire's political views began to evolve, aligning increasingly with the burgeoning wave of Quebec nationalism that characterized the Quiet Revolution.

Shifting Tides: Towards Quebec Sovereignty

By 1966, Gilles Grégoire's political trajectory had shifted decisively. He departed from the Ralliement des créditistes, marking a clear pivot towards the cause of Quebec sovereignty. On August 21, 1966, he was elected president of the Ralliement national, a political party explicitly advocating for Quebec's independence. This move placed him firmly among the leading figures championing a distinct future for Quebec outside the Canadian federation.

His leadership of the Ralliement national proved instrumental in the formation of a new, powerful sovereignist force. In October 1968, the Ralliement national merged with René Lévesque's Mouvement Souveraineté-Association. This historic unification led to the creation of the Parti Québécois, a political entity that would profoundly shape Quebec's political landscape for decades to come. Grégoire's involvement in this merger solidified his place as a foundational member of what would become one of Quebec's most influential political parties.

Provincial Service and Subsequent Downfall

With the Parti Québécois now established, Grégoire turned his attention to provincial politics. He successfully ran for a seat in the National Assembly of Quebec, representing the riding of Frontenac. He was first elected in the landmark 1976 general election, which saw the Parti Québécois sweep to power for the first time, an unprecedented victory that sent ripples across Canada. His mandate was renewed in the 1981 general election, further cementing his role as a provincial legislator.

However, Grégoire's political career was abruptly and tragically curtailed by severe legal issues. In 1983, he was convicted of sexual abuse involving several minor girls and was sentenced to two years less a day in jail. This conviction led to his immediate political isolation and forced him to sit as an independent member for the remainder of his term in the National Assembly, effectively ending his active role within the Parti Québécois and mainstream politics.

Gilles Grégoire passed away in Quebec City on November 22, 2006, at the age of 80, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by significant political contributions to Quebec's sovereignist movement and a deeply troubling personal record.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gilles Grégoire

When and where was Gilles Grégoire born and when did he pass away?
Gilles Grégoire was born on May 6, 1926, in Quebec City, Quebec, and he passed away in the same city on November 22, 2006, at the age of 80.
What was Gilles Grégoire's most notable political achievement?
His most notable political achievement was being a co-founder of the Parti Québécois, a major political party in Quebec dedicated to achieving sovereignty for the province. He played a crucial role in the merger that created the party in 1968.
Which political parties was Gilles Grégoire associated with during his career?
Gilles Grégoire was initially elected to the House of Commons with the Ralliement des créditistes (Social Credit Party of Canada). He later became president of the Ralliement national, a pro-sovereignty party, which then merged to form the Parti Québécois. After his legal issues, he served as an independent member in the National Assembly of Quebec.
What was the Ralliement national and its significance?
The Ralliement national was a political party led by Gilles Grégoire that openly advocated for Quebec's sovereignty. Its significance lies in its pivotal role in merging with René Lévesque's Mouvement Souveraineté-Association to create the influential Parti Québécois in 1968.
What led to the end of Gilles Grégoire's mainstream political career?
His mainstream political career ended in 1983 when he was convicted of sexual abuse involving several minor girls and sentenced to a jail term. This resulted in him being expelled from the Parti Québécois and serving the remainder of his term in the National Assembly as an independent member.
Did Gilles Grégoire hold both federal and provincial political offices?
Yes, Gilles Grégoire served as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons of Canada (federal level) from 1962 to 1966, and later as a Member of the National Assembly of Quebec (provincial level) from 1976 until the end of his term after the 1981 election, though as an independent from 1983 onwards.