The Popular Undercurrents of Alberta Separatism

Western separatism for decades was largely a fringe obsession that periodically flared into a popular fad. It found new life following the October 21 re-election of the federal Liberals, erupting with public rallies attracting thousands, websites and social media groups drawing tens of thousands and online petitions claiming to run into the hundreds of thousands. Polling suggests that independence for Alberta could have the support of one-third or even two-fifths of the province’s population. News media pundits added their bit with pieces covering the usual angles – including pointed reminders of the dark side of 1980s-vintage Western separatism.