GOVERNORS-GENERAL (1911 - 1952)
HRH
Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught (1911-1916)
Prince Albert was the third son of Queen Victoria and younger brother of King
Edward VII.
Victor
Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire (1916-1921)
The Duke got off to a rough start when British Prime Minister Lloyd George failed
to consult with Canadian PM Robert Borden about this appointment.
Baron
Julian Byng of Vimy (1921-1926)
British Commander of the Canadian Army Corps during World War I, gained glory with
the Canadian victory at Vimy Ridge in 1917.
Baron
Willingdon of Ratton (1926-1931)
Until Willingdon, the Governor General acted as an agent of the British government.
Now, he was a representative of the Crown who acted on the advice of the Canadian
government.
V. Ponsonby, Earl of Bessborough (1931-1935)
Served during the Great Depression. Requested that his salary be cut 10% out of
consideration for the tough times Canadians faced.
John Buchan, Baron Tweedsmuir (1935-1940)
A prolific writer of two of three books a year, including one that became the basis
of an Alfred Hitchcock movie. Died in office.
Alexander
Cambridge, Earl of Althone (1940-1946)
A true blue-blood who was an uncle of King George VI, the brother-in-law of King
George V, and a direct descendent of Queen Victoria.
Viscount
(Harold) Alexander of Tunis (1946-1952)
Considered by some as the greatest British military commander since the Duke of
Wellington for his service in southern Europe during World War II.