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Sir William Young (1799-1887) was a Nova Scotia politician and jurist.
Young was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 1836 as a Reformer (or Liberal) and, as a lawyer, defended Reform journalists accused of libel. When responsible government was instituted in 1848, Young hoped to become the first Premier but was passed over in favour of fellow reformer James B. Uniacke and Young became Speaker. However, Young succeeded Uniacke in 1854. His government was accused of overlooking Catholics and tensions with Catholics were exacerbated by Joseph Howe's rupture with Nova Soctia's Irish Catholic community over his recruitment of Americans to fight on the British side in the Crimean War.
In February 1857, ten Catholic and two Protestant Liberals voted with the Tories to bring down Young's government.
Young returned to power in January 1860 when the Tory government was unable to command a majority in the legislature after an election. In July, the colony's Chief Justice died and Young, who had long coveted the job, was appointed to the position by the lieutenant-governor.
He served as Chief Justice for twenty-one years and was noted for placing cushions on his chair so he would tower above his fellow justices.
| Premier of Nova ScotiaPremiers of the colony of Nova Scotia (1848-1867) Name Party Term James B. Uniacke Liberal 1848- 1854 William Young Liberal 1854- 1857 James W. Johnston Conservative 1857- 1860 William Young Liberal 1860 Joseph Howe Liberal 1860- 1863 James W. Johnston Co | ||
| Preceded by: James B. Uniacke 1848-1854 |
First premiership (1854-1857) |
Followed by: James W. JohnstonJames William Johnston (1792-1873) was a Nova Scotia lawyer and politician. He served as Premier of the colony from 1857 to 1860 and again from 1864. He had also been Government Leader prior to the granting of responsible government in 1848. He was a Cons 1857-1860 |
| Preceded by: James W. JohnstonJames William Johnston (1792-1873) was a Nova Scotia lawyer and politician. He served as Premier of the colony from 1857 to 1860 and again from 1864. He had also been Government Leader prior to the granting of responsible government in 1848. He was a Cons 1857-1860 |
Second premiership (1860) | Followed by: Joseph Howe 1860-1863 |