About the Book

A comprehensive and unique overview of elections and voting in Canada from Confederation to the recent spate of minority governments, this book examines changes in the composition of the electorate, as well as the technology and professionalization of election campaigns.

Book Synopsis

The Hill Times: Best Books of 2016

An overview of the history of elections and voting in Canada, including minority governments, dynasties, and social movements.

Dynasties and Interludes provides a comprehensive and unique overview of elections and voting in Canada from Confederation to the most recent election. Its principal argument is that the Canadian political landscape has consisted of long periods of hegemony of a single party and/or leader (dynasties), punctuated by short, sharp disruptions brought about by the sudden rise of new parties, leaders, or social movements (interludes).

This revised and updated second edition includes an analysis of the results of the 2011 and 2015 federal elections as well as an in-depth discussion of the "Harper Dynasty."

Review Quotes

Dynasties and Interludes provides an account of federal elections in Canada that is both comprehensive and analytical. It is a must read for all who are interested in the changing patterns of politics in Canada.

Rightly shows that after one or two elections we can't be sure we're experiencing a dynasty or trend.

Some Canadian political books, like governments, are around for an interlude. But every now and then, one comes along with enduring, long-term value. Dynasties and Interludes has assumed a permanent place on my desk.

Dynasties and Interludes provides an account of federal elections in Canada that is both comprehensive and analytical. It is a must read for all who are interested in the changing patterns of politics in Canada.--Peter Russell

Rightly shows that after one or two elections we can't be sure we're experiencing a dynasty or trend.-- "Troy Media"

Some Canadian political books, like governments, are around for an interlude. But every now and then, one comes along with enduring, long-term value. Dynasties and Interludes has assumed a permanent place on my desk.--Susan Delacourt

About the Author

Lawrence LeDuc is a political science professor at the University of Toronto and is co-author of Absent Mandate and Political Choice in Canada.

Jon H. Pammett is a political science professor at Ottawa's Carleton University and is the editor of several studies of Canadian elections.

André Turcotte is an associate professor in communication at Carleton University and was a contributor to The Canadian Federal Election of 2015.