What was the "Quiet Revolution" in Quebec?

The "Quiet Revolution" in Quebec refers to a significant period of intense socio-political and cultural change that occurred primarily during the 1960s. This transformative era was characterized by a shift in the province's identity and governance, marked by the secularization of society, the rise of the Quebec nationalist movement, and a reformation of the education system and public services.

One of the key elements of the Quiet Revolution was the push towards greater provincial autonomy and the assertion of Quebec's distinct identity within Canada. The government, led by Premier Jean Lesage, implemented many reforms that aimed to modernize Quebec's economy and reduce the influence of the Catholic Church in public affairs, advocating for a more secular and progressive society.

The movement fostered a strong sense of nationalism and laid the groundwork for future political developments in Quebec, including the growing support for sovereignty. This context of change, activism, and redefinition of cultural and political norms is what makes the description of the Quiet Revolution as a period of intense socio-political and cultural change accurate and appropriate.