Socio-Political Aspects of the Richard Riot

Hockey has always played a significant role in Canadian culture, it is a "unifying symbol" (Ramos, & Gosine) of the country. Maurice "Rocket" Richard was a powerful symbol of Quebece's francophone identity, and without even knowing, he was a significant symbol of nationalism in Quebec as he was such an icon. Richard's dominance in Hockey boosted the francophone community, both economically and politically (Ramos, & Gosine). This was a big benefit as Quebec was becoming a more anglophone- dominated province. Richard was able to keep the individuality and power of the francophone community. However, the events of the Richard Riot on March 17, 1955 brought even more tension between the francophone and anglophone communities. The rioters' rebellion against the decision of the anglophone president of the NHL showed the support the Montrealers had towards their political and hockey hero. Their destruction of the city showed the continous power struggle between the french and english Canadians, which further encouraged the separation between the two communities.