Origins & Early Life

The Famous Five (French: Célèbres cinq), also known as The Valiant Five, and initially as The Alberta Five, were five prominent Canadian suffragists who advocated for women and children: Henrietta Muir Edwards, Nellie McClung, Louise McKinney, Emily Murphy, and Irene Parlby. On August 27, 1927, they petitioned the federal government to refer the issue of the eligibility of women to be senator to the Supreme Court of Canada. This petition was the foundation of the Persons Case, a leading constitutional decision. Although most Canadian women had the vote in federal elections and all provinces but Quebec by 1927, the case was part of a larger drive for political equality.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

This was the first step towards equality for women in Canada and was the start to the first wave of feminism. The question the federal government posed to the Supreme Court was: "Does the word 'Persons' in Section 24 of the British North America Act, 1867, include female persons?" In 1928, the Supreme Court unanimously held that women were not "qualified persons" within the meaning of s. 24 of the British North America Act, 1867. The five women appealed that ruling to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, at...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Abdul Basit 'Abd us-Samad — Historical peer (Born in 1927) (1927): Renowned Egyptian Quran reciter, celebrated for his melodious and deeply engaging vocal style.
• Al Martino — Historical peer (Born in 1927) (1927): Iconic Italian-American crooner, celebrated for standards and his role in The Godfather.
• Albert Bassermann — Historical peer (Born in 1867) (1867): Esteemed German stage and screen actor, celebrated for his dramatic versatility.
• Arturo Toscanini — Historical peer (Born in 1867) (1867): Intense Italian conductor, master of orchestral detail, and pivotal figure in 20th-century music.
• Agnès Varda — Historical peer (Born in 1928) (1928): Pioneering French filmmaker, artist, and documentarian celebrated for her unique vision.
• Alan J. Pakula — Historical peer (Born in 1928) (1928): American film director, writer, and producer known for political thrillers.