Following Riel's conviction, what was the stance of the federal Cabinet?

• A. In favor of pardon and release
• B. In favor of exile
• C. In favor of execution
• D. Indifferent or waiting for further review

Answer: (C)

The question tests how the federal Cabinet responded after Louis Riel’s conviction for treason. After the trial, the Cabinet insisted on enforcing the harshest appropriate punishment to uphold federal authority and deter future uprisings. They saw execution as the necessary consequence of treason against the Canadian state, signaling that rebellion would be punished severely. While some argued for clemency, the prevailing stance was to proceed with the death penalty, and Riel was ultimately executed. The other options would have undermined the government’s effort to project strength and control over the rebellion.