Charles Fox Bennett
Charles James Fox Bennett | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date |
| Died | December 5, 1883 (aged 90) |
| Occupation(s) | Businessman, politician |
| Known for | Opposition to Newfoundland joining Canadian Confederation; Premier of Newfoundland Colony |
Charles James Fox Bennett (11 June 1793 – 5 December 1883) was a distinguished businessman and political figure who strongly resisted Newfoundland joining the Canadian Confederation. Among the colony's wealthiest individuals, Bennett held diverse commercial ventures spanning fisheries, distilling, brewing, and ship construction. His brother, Thomas Bennett, served as a magistrate and member of Newfoundland's inaugural House of Assembly, and was also his business associate.
Bennett began his political career during the 1840s, representing the Anglican constituency and opposing the establishment of responsible government. Despite his efforts, an alliance of Catholic and non-Anglican Protestant groups succeeded in achieving self-government for Newfoundland.
During the 1860s, Bennett emerged as the leader of the Anti-Confederation Party, challenging Sir Frederick Carter's Confederation initiatives. His party secured victory in the 1869 election, allowing him to form an administration in 1870. Nevertheless, factional disputes within his government prompted his resignation in 1874, paving the way for Carter's return as Premier. The controversy over Confederation diminished until the onset of the Great Depression.
In addition to his political activities, Bennett contributed to economic progress by initiating mineral explorations and establishing the lucrative copper mine at Tilt Cove (Notre Dame Bay) during the 1860s.
The anti-Confederation movement led by Bennett eventually transformed into Newfoundland's Conservative Party.