"We must cherish our heritage. We must preserve our nationhood for the youth of our future. History should be written to be passed on." (Louis Riel, 1884). Louis Riel, a man of great character and abiding love for his Western Métis heritage, proved to be one of the most revolutionary men considered in the chronicles of the Dominion of Canada. Despite this, he remains one of the most controversial and cryptic figures throughout Canadian history, leading to the question: is he recognized as the Father of Confederation or a traitorous rebel? A period of revolution lasting from the 1870s to the late 1880s was doomed with continued riots justified as a year of intervention for those involved; started by Riel. While his actions may have struck him as a villain, Riel's actions brought great benefits to Canada. Louis Riel is considered a hero for preserving the civil liberties and identities of the Métis and leading two memorable resistance movements against the Canadian government, in which to uphold their legacy. Louis Riel is said to be a valiant but flawed conqueror. However, despite all these flaws, he is known to be one of Canada's national heroes, as he left a substantial impact on Canadian history as a dominant individual within civilization. Riel was highly regarded by Aboriginal peoples, particularly the Métis, due to fighting for civil liberties that were systematically stripped away by the government. While stationed in the Red River settlement, he was greeted by the invasion of discrimination brought by Ontario's English-speaking settlers; racial tensions increased. He strove to protect the habitat, customs and values ​​of the Métis in the Northwest as they were constantly at the center of paper ships, fearing their identities would be erased. He willingly sacrificed his own existence to protect those who could not protect themselves. He was a man who captured such remarkable qualities that made him such a powerful individual during the 19th century; determination, charisma and ability to have strong convictions. Those who question his sanity still see him as an essentially honorable figure in Canadian history. He was a noble man and proud of his culture, he fought for the equality and freedoms of his people, without him many rights would have been denied to Métis citizens. Ultimately, many still question his existence and reputation, when in reality his name is still a living legend today; a symbol of native sovereignty. Louis Riel is indeed one of the most important figures in Canadian history and is undoubtedly a hero to many.