CA-K873History

J.L. Ralston, Minister of National Defence

James L. Ralston, 1921 (Harris & Ewing). James L Ralston Harris and Ewing portrait 1921 · Harris & Ewing · Photo source · Photo licence: Public domain. Resized for display; item previews may be cropped. The image remains under the licence shown.

Factual accuracy review: No recorded challenge

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James Layton Ralston, born in Amherst, Nova Scotia, was a lawyer, provincial legislator and decorated First World War veteran. He became Minister of National Defence in Mackenzie King’s government in 1926 and again in 1940. His support for conscription for overseas service was opposed by King, and he was forced to resign from cabinet in 1944.

Scope & context

Ralston as described in his designation.

Sources behind this record

James Layton Ralston National Historic Person ↗

Parks Canada (Directory of Federal Heritage Designations)

Importance; plaque text