Andrew Stuart (Lower Canada politician)

Andrew Stuart (1785 – 1870) was a lawyer, judge, and political figure in Lower Canada.

Born in Catrine, Ayrshire, Scotland, Stuart emigrated to Lower Canada in 1801 and was admitted to the bar in 1807. He became a prominent lawyer in Quebec City.

Politically, Stuart was a leading figure in the English Party, also known as the Constitutional Party. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Lower Canada for the riding of Quebec City in 1820 and represented various ridings until 1838. He consistently advocated for the interests of the English-speaking minority and opposed the growing influence of the French-Canadian majority. His political views often clashed with those of the Patriote Party led by Louis-Joseph Papineau.

Stuart played a significant role in the political tensions that eventually led to the Lower Canada Rebellion of 1837-38. He was a vocal critic of the Patriotes' demands for greater self-government and a more accountable executive. He also served on the Special Council appointed to govern Lower Canada after the suspension of the constitution following the rebellion.

In 1838, Stuart was appointed a judge of the Court of Queen's Bench for Lower Canada, a position he held until his retirement in 1859. He was considered a learned and capable jurist.

Andrew Stuart's career reflected the complex political and social dynamics of Lower Canada in the first half of the 19th century. He was a key figure in the English-speaking community and a staunch defender of British interests in the colony.