George Brown (1818-1880)
In 1844, this future Father of Confederation founded The Globe, an influential newspaper that gave him a powerful platform for his political, social, and religious views. A fierce advocate of reform and liberalism, George Brown entered Parliament in 1851 and rose to head the reorganized "Clear Grit" party. In 1864 he was a key figure in the Great Coalition that made Confederation possible. He also played a central role in the Abolitionist movement, co-founding the Anti-Slavery Society of Canada. After leaving government in 1865, Brown remained a vital force in the emerging Liberal Party of Canada.
Plaque via Alan L. Brown's site Toronto Plaques. Full page here.