Angus MacLean, Canadian commander and politician, 25th Premier of Prince Edward Island (b. 1914)

John Angus MacLean: A Statesman and Steward of Prince Edward Island

John Angus MacLean, a name synonymous with dedicated public service, agricultural stewardship, and unwavering resilience, was a prominent Canadian politician and esteemed farmer from Prince Edward Island. Born on May 15, 1914, his life's journey, which concluded on February 15, 2000, in Charlottetown, spanned critical periods of Canadian history and left an indelible mark on his home province.

A Foundation in Science and Agriculture

MacLean's intellectual curiosity was evident early on through his academic pursuits. He was an accomplished alumnus of two distinguished Canadian institutions: Mount Allison University and the University of British Columbia. At both universities, he earned degrees in science, providing him with a rigorous analytical framework that would undoubtedly inform his future endeavours, whether in managing his farm or crafting public policy. This scientific foundation, combined with his practical experience as a farmer, grounded him deeply in the realities of rural life and the efficient use of land resources, shaping his later policies on environmental protection and community development.

Heroic Service During World War II: From Farm to Fighter Pilot

The outbreak of World War II called MacLean away from his agricultural roots. Demonstrating profound patriotism, he temporarily set aside his farming career to enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 1939. His exceptional service continued throughout the war, stretching until 1947, during which he rose through the ranks to achieve the distinguished position of Wing Commander. This rank signified considerable leadership and responsibility within the RCAF, highlighting his capabilities not just as a pilot, but as an effective military strategist.

One of the most remarkable chapters of his wartime experience involved his bomber being shot down over Nazi-occupied Europe. Far from surrendering, MacLean displayed extraordinary courage and resourcefulness, successfully evading capture with the critical assistance of the Belgian escape-line Comète. This clandestine network, primarily run by Belgian and French civilians, including the legendary resistance fighter Andrée De Jongh, risked their lives daily to help downed Allied airmen and others escape to neutral Spain. The Comète Line's operations were incredibly dangerous, relying on a vast network of safe houses and brave volunteers, showcasing the profound human spirit of resistance against overwhelming odds. MacLean's successful evasion speaks volumes about his resilience and the vital, often unsung, efforts of the European resistance movements during this tumultuous period.

Forging a Path in Federal Politics: From Defeat to Decades of Service

Upon his return to Prince Edward Island after the war, MacLean turned his attention to public service, seeking to represent his community at the national level. He ran for a seat in the House of Commons of Canada as a candidate for the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada. Despite his distinguished military background and local recognition, he faced initial setbacks, being defeated in both the 1945 and 1949 federal elections. This early political adversity, however, did not deter his commitment to serving Canadians and to the Progressive Conservative ideals.

His persistence paid off in a significant way when he was first elected to Parliament in a 1951 by-election. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable federal political career. MacLean held his parliamentary seat continuously, demonstrating consistent electoral success and trust from his constituents, until he decided to step away from federal politics in 1976. This sustained tenure of 25 years in the House of Commons underscored his deep understanding of national issues and his dedication to his constituents, making him a seasoned and respected voice in Ottawa.

Serving in the Cabinet: Minister of Fisheries Under Diefenbaker

During his federal career, John Angus MacLean’s talents were recognized at the highest levels of government. He was appointed to the cabinet of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, serving as the Minister of Fisheries from 1957 until the Diefenbaker government's defeat in the 1963 federal election. In this crucial role, MacLean was responsible for overseeing Canada's vast and vital fishing industries, a portfolio particularly significant for a coastal nation and an island province like Prince Edward Island. His tenure involved managing fisheries resources, supporting fishing communities, and developing policies critical to the economic well-being of countless Canadians, balancing conservation with economic necessity.

A Return Home: Leading Prince Edward Island's Progressive Conservatives

In 1976, after decades of dedicated federal service, John Angus MacLean was persuaded to pivot his political career towards his home province. He accepted the challenging role of leading the Progressive Conservative Party of Prince Edward Island, a party that had been struggling in opposition for a full decade. His return was seen as a beacon of hope, bringing experienced leadership and a national profile to provincial politics. On November 8, 1976, he successfully secured a seat in the provincial legislature through a by-election, setting the stage for a dramatic political resurgence and renewed focus on Prince Edward Island's unique challenges and opportunities.

Premier of Prince Edward Island: Championing Rural Life and Sustainable Development

MacLean's leadership proved transformative. He successfully led the Progressive Conservative Party to victory in the 1979 provincial election, becoming the Premier of Prince Edward Island. His government's agenda was notably progressive and deeply rooted in his values as a farmer and a steward of the land. Key policies reflected his commitment to preserving the unique character of Prince Edward Island:

• Emphasis on Rural Community Life: His administration prioritized the vitality and sustainability of Prince Edward Island’s rural communities, understanding that the strength of the province lay in its traditional way of life and its agricultural backbone. Policies aimed to support local economies and maintain the distinct social fabric of these areas.
• Ban on New Shopping Malls: In a bold and widely discussed move designed to curb unchecked development and protect the province’s pristine landscape and local businesses, MacLean’s government famously banned the construction of new shopping malls. This forward-thinking policy aimed to preserve the existing town centres and prevent the urban sprawl seen in many other jurisdictions, aligning with a "small is beautiful" philosophy for island development.
• Royal Commission on Land Use and Sprawl: Recognizing the delicate balance between development and preservation on a geographically confined island, his government instituted a Royal Commission. This commission was tasked with thoroughly examining land use practices and the potential for urban sprawl, laying groundwork for sustainable planning and environmental protection for future generations on the island.

Furthermore, demonstrating fiscal prudence and an independent provincial stance, his government made the significant decision to cancel Prince Edward Island’s participation in the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station project in New Brunswick. This move reflected a provincial government’s right to determine its energy future and manage its financial commitments, opting out of a large-scale energy venture and potentially redirecting resources to more localized or renewable energy solutions for the island.

A Peaceful Transition and Lasting Contributions

On August 17, 1981, Premier MacLean announced his intention to step down from the province's highest office, signaling a graceful transition of power upon the election of a new party leader. He officially retired as Premier on November 17, 1981, when James Lee was sworn in as his successor. MacLean chose not to seek re-election in the 1982 provincial election, instead returning to his enduring passion: the family farm. He meticulously redeveloped the farm for low-intensity blueberry cultivation, a sustainable agricultural practice that resonated with his lifelong respect for the land and its ecological balance.

Beyond his political achievements, John Angus MacLean was deeply respected as a steward of both the land and rural communities. A committed Presbyterian of Scottish descent, his values were deeply ingrained in his personal and public life, guiding his decisions and actions. His extraordinary contributions to Canada were formally recognized in 1991 when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the nation's highest civilian honours, acknowledging his lifelong dedication and impact on both federal and provincial stages.

John Angus MacLean passed away peacefully in Charlottetown on February 15, 2000, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, selfless service, and a deep, abiding commitment to Prince Edward Island and Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Angus MacLean

Who was John Angus MacLean?

John Angus MacLean was a distinguished Canadian politician and farmer from Prince Edward Island, renowned for his heroic military service during World War II, his extensive career in federal politics, and his impactful tenure as Premier of Prince Edward Island.

What was John Angus MacLean's role during World War II?

He served with distinction in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) from 1939 to 1947, rising to the rank of Wing Commander. A notable part of his service included surviving his bomber being shot down over Nazi-occupied Europe and successfully evading capture with the critical help of the Belgian Comète escape-line and its brave leader, Andrée De Jongh.

When was John Angus MacLean first elected to Parliament?

After facing defeats in the 1945 and 1949 federal elections, John Angus MacLean was first elected to the House of Commons of Canada in a 1951 by-election and continued to serve as a Member of Parliament until 1976.

What significant governmental roles did John Angus MacLean hold?

He held the federal portfolio of Minister of Fisheries in Prime Minister John Diefenbaker's cabinet from 1957 to 1963. Later, he returned to provincial politics to become the Premier of Prince Edward Island from 1979 to 1981, where he championed rural development and sustainable policies.

What were some of John Angus MacLean's key policy achievements as Premier of Prince Edward Island?

As Premier, MacLean's government notably focused on strengthening rural community life, implemented a ban on new shopping malls to preserve local character, established a Royal Commission to study land use and urban sprawl, and cancelled the province's involvement in the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station project.

What national honour did John Angus MacLean receive?

In recognition of his lifelong dedication and extensive public service to Canada, John Angus MacLean was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1991, one of the highest civilian honours in the country.