Full History Of Justin Trudeau In Timeline From 1906

1906: Immigration of Thomas Bernard

In 1906, Thomas Bernard, Justin Trudeau's maternal great-grandfather, immigrated to Penticton, British Columbia, from Makassar, Indonesia at age 15 with his family.

January 28, 1933: Death of Margaret Mary Theodora Macdonald

Margaret Mary Theodora Macdonald, the first child born to a prime minister in office, died on January 28, 1933.

June 23, 1971: Pregnancy Announcement

On June 23, 1971, the Prime Minister's Office announced that Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau's wife, Margaret Trudeau, was pregnant and due in December.

December 25, 1971: Justin Trudeau's Birth

Justin Trudeau was born on December 25, 1971, at 9:27 pm EST at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.

January 16, 1972: Baptism and First Public Appearance

On January 16, 1972, Justin Trudeau was baptized at Ottawa's Notre Dame Basilica, marking his first public appearance.

April 14, 1972: Gala at the National Arts Centre

On April 14, 1972, Justin Trudeau's father and mother hosted a gala at the National Arts Centre, where U.S. President Richard Nixon toasted to Trudeau as the "future prime minister of Canada". First lady Pat Nixon gifted him a stuffed toy Snoopy.

December 25, 1973: Birth of Brother Alexandre "Sacha" Trudeau

Alexandre "Sacha" Trudeau, Justin Trudeau's younger brother, was born on December 25, 1973.

October 2, 1975: Birth of Brother Michel Trudeau

Michel Trudeau, Justin Trudeau's younger brother, was born on October 2, 1975.

1976: Enrollment in Rockcliffe Park Public School

In 1976, Justin Trudeau was enrolled in the French immersion program at Rockcliffe Park Public School.

1977: Parents' Separation

In 1977, when Justin Trudeau was five years old, his parents announced their separation; his father was given primary custody.

September 1979: Move to Stornoway and Mother's New Home

In September 1979, Justin Trudeau and his brothers lived on the top floor of Stornoway while repairs continued. His mother purchased and moved into a new home nearby at 95 Victoria Street in Ottawa's New Edinburgh neighborhood.

October 1979: Nanny Interview

In October 1979, Justin Trudeau's nanny Dianne Lavergne was quoted saying, "Justin is a mommy's boy, so it's not easy, but children's hurts mend very quickly. And they're lucky kids, anyway."

February 1980: Return to Prime Minister's Residence

After the February 1980 election, Justin Trudeau and his brothers returned to the prime minister's official residence.

1980: Liberals near-sweep in Quebec

In 1980, Justin Trudeau's father led the Liberals to a near-sweep of Quebec. This was the most seats that the Liberals had won in that province since Trudeau's father led them to a near-sweep of the province in 1980.

June 1984: Move to Cormier House

After his father's retirement in June 1984, Justin Trudeau and his family moved into his father's home at 1418 Pine Avenue, Montreal, known as Cormier House.

1984: Divorce Granted

In 1984, Justin Trudeau's mother filed for a no-fault divorce which the Supreme Court of Ontario granted.

1985: Assault on former BC premier Ujjal Dosanjh

In 1985, Jaspal Atwal was involved in the assault on former BC premier Ujjal Dosanjh.

1986: Jaspal Atwal convicted for shooting and attempted murder

In 1986, Jaspal Atwal was convicted for the shooting and attempted murder of Indian Cabinet minister Malkiat Singh Sidhu

1988: Supported the Liberal Party

In 1988, Justin Trudeau supported the Liberal Party and its leader John Turner in the federal election.

1988: Enactment of the Emergencies Act

In 1988, the Emergencies Act was enacted. Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act on February 14, 2022, for the first time since it was enacted.

December 7, 1994: Granting of father's arms and crest

On December 7, 1994, the Canadian Heraldic Authority originally granted Pierre Trudeau's arms and crest, which Justin Trudeau would later inherit.

1994: Bachelor of Arts Degree

In 1994, Justin Trudeau earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in literature from McGill University.

November 13, 1998: Death of Brother Michel Trudeau

Justin Trudeau's younger brother, Michel Trudeau, died on November 13, 1998.

1998: Bachelor of Education Degree

In 1998, Justin Trudeau earned a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of British Columbia.

1998: Participation in Alpha course after brother's death

In 1998, after the death of his brother Michel, Justin Trudeau participated in an Alpha course, which helped him regain his faith.

August 2000: Kokanee Summit Incident

In August 2000, Justin Trudeau attended the Kokanee Summit and was accused of groping a female reporter. He provided an apology, but later stated he did not remember any negative incidents.

September 8, 2000: Inheritance of father's arms and crest

Following the death of his father, Pierre Trudeau, on September 8, 2000, Justin Trudeau inherited his father’s arms and crest.

October 2000: Eulogy at Father's Funeral

In October 2000, Justin Trudeau delivered a prominent eulogy at his father's state funeral.

2000: Started Kokanee Glacier Alpine Campaign

In 2000, Justin Trudeau and his family started the Kokanee Glacier Alpine Campaign for winter sports safety, following the death of his brother Michel in an avalanche.

2001: SNC-Lavalin Bribes

Between 2001 and 2011, SNC-Lavalin allegedly paid CA$48 million in bribes in Libya to officials in the government of Muammar Gaddafi.

2001: Trudeau wore brownface at Arabian Nights-themed gala

In the spring of 2001, Justin Trudeau wore brownface makeup at an Arabian Nights-themed gala while he was a teacher at West Point Grey Academy.

2002: Engineering Studies

From 2002 to 2004, Justin Trudeau studied engineering at the École Polytechnique de Montréal.

2002: Chaired the Katimavik youth program

From 2002, Justin Trudeau chaired the Katimavik youth program, a project started by Jacques Hébert.

2002: Criticized government's avalanche warning system decision

In 2002, Justin Trudeau criticized the Government of British Columbia's decision to stop funding a public avalanche warning system.

2002: Return to Montreal and Katimavik Chair

In 2002, Justin Trudeau returned to Montreal to further his studies and served as chair of Katimavik, a youth charity, from 2002 to 2006.

2002: Panelist on CBC Radio's Canada Reads series

In 2002, Justin Trudeau was a panelist on CBC Radio's Canada Reads series, where he championed "The Colony of Unrequited Dreams" by Wayne Johnston.

The Colony of Unrequited Dreams: A Novel

Check it on Amazon

June 2003: Reconnection with Sophie Grégoire

In June 2003, Justin Trudeau reconnected with Sophie Grégoire as adults when she was assigned as his co-host for a charity ball. They began dating several months later, marking the beginning of their romantic relationship.

2003: Co-hosted tribute to Jean Chrétien

In 2003, Justin Trudeau co-hosted a tribute to outgoing prime minister Jean Chrétien at the Liberal Party's leadership convention.

2003: Eulogy Recognized as Significant Event

In 2003, the CBC included Justin Trudeau's eulogy in its list of significant Canadian events from the past fifty years.

April 2004: Inaugurated the Trudeau Centre

In April 2004, Justin Trudeau and his brother Alexandre inaugurated the Trudeau Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Toronto.

October 2004: Engagement to Sophie Grégoire

In October 2004, Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire became engaged, solidifying their commitment to each other.

2004: Withdrawal from Master's Program

In 2004, Justin Trudeau withdrew from a master's degree program in environmental geography at McGill to seek public office.

May 28, 2005: Marriage to Sophie Grégoire

On May 28, 2005, Justin Trudeau married Sophie Grégoire in a ceremony at Montreal's Sainte-Madeleine d'Outremont Church, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.

2005: Fought against proposed zinc mine

In 2005, Justin Trudeau fought against a proposed $100-million zinc mine that he argued would poison the Nahanni River.

September 17, 2006: Master of ceremonies at Toronto rally

On September 17, 2006, Justin Trudeau was the master of ceremonies at a Toronto rally organized by Roméo Dallaire, calling for Canadian participation in resolving the Darfur crisis.

October 2006: Criticized Quebec nationalism

In October 2006, Justin Trudeau criticized Quebec nationalism, describing political nationalism as an "old idea from the 19th century".

2006: Liberal Party Task Force Chair

In 2006, Justin Trudeau became chair of the Liberal Party's Task Force on Youth Renewal.

2006: Hosted the Giller Prize ceremony

In 2006, Justin Trudeau hosted the presentation ceremony for the Giller Prize for literature.

2006: Supported Gerard Kennedy in leadership race

In 2006, Justin Trudeau supported Gerard Kennedy for Liberal Party leader, later supporting Stéphane Dion after Kennedy withdrew.

2006: Chaired youth renewal task force

In 2006, Justin Trudeau was appointed to chair a task force on youth renewal after the Liberal Party's defeat in the federal election.

2006: Riding fell to the Bloc Québécois

In 2006, the Papineau riding, which had been in Liberal hands for 53 years, fell to the Bloc Québécois.

2006: Conflict of Interest Act

In December 2017, the ethics commissioner's report found that Trudeau had violated four provisions of the 2006 Conflict of Interest Act, making him the first prime minister to break the modern federal conflict of interest law.

2006: Chaired the Katimavik youth program

Until 2006, Justin Trudeau chaired the Katimavik youth program, a project started by Jacques Hébert.

April 29, 2007: Won Liberal Party nomination

On April 29, 2007, Justin Trudeau won the Liberal Party's nomination for Papineau, securing 690 votes.

2007: Sought Liberal nomination in Papineau

In 2007, Justin Trudeau announced his intention to seek the Liberal nomination in the Papineau riding for the next general election, after rumors of running in Outremont.

2007: Starred in The Great War miniseries

In 2007, Justin Trudeau starred in the two-part CBC Television miniseries "The Great War", portraying Major Talbot Mercer Papineau, giving an account of Canada's participation in the First World War.

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October 14, 2008: Elected as MP for Papineau

On October 14, 2008, Justin Trudeau was elected as the Member of Parliament for Papineau, narrowly defeating Vivian Barbot.

December 2008: Michael Ignatieff named leader

In December 2008, Michael Ignatieff was named leader after Trudeau did not enter the race.

2008: Entered Parliament as a Member of the Official Opposition

In 2008, Justin Trudeau entered parliament as a member of the Official Opposition after the Conservative Party won a minority government.

2008: Camping Memories

In 2008, Justin Trudeau said that of all his early family outings he enjoyed camping with his father the most.

2008: Elected as MP

In 2008, Justin Trudeau was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Papineau, a position he held until 2025.

2008: Elected to the House of Commons

In 2008, Justin Trudeau was elected to represent the riding of Papineau in the House of Commons.

April 2009: Co-chaired the Liberal Party's national convention

In April 2009, Justin Trudeau co-chaired the Liberal Party's national convention in Vancouver.

2009: Previous Failed UN Security Council Bid

In 2009, Canada had previously failed an attempt to join the Security Council under Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

2009: Trudeau on Parents' Marriage

In 2009, Justin Trudeau said of his mother and father's marriage, "They loved each other incredibly, passionately, completely. But there was 30 years between them, and my mom never was an equal partner in what encompassed my father's life, his duty, his country."

2009: Official Opposition Critic for Youth and Multiculturalism

In 2009, Justin Trudeau was appointed the Liberal Party's Official Opposition critic for youth and multiculturalism.

September 2010: Reassigned as critic for youth, citizenship, and immigration

In September 2010, Justin Trudeau was reassigned as critic for youth, citizenship, and immigration.

2010: Controversial comments from 2010 interview

A week before the November 26, 2012 by-election day Sun Media reported on comments Justin Trudeau had made in a 2010 interview with Télé-Québec, in which he said, "Canada isn't doing well right now because it's Albertans who control our community and socio-democratic agenda."

2010: Encouraged increase of Canada's relief efforts

In 2010, Justin Trudeau encouraged an increase in Canada's relief efforts after the 2010 Haiti earthquake and sought more accessible immigration procedures for Haitians.

2010: Critic for Citizenship and Immigration

In 2010, Justin Trudeau was appointed critic for citizenship and immigration.

August 2011: Assets of Numbered Company

As of August 2011, the first numbered company Trudeau and his brothers were given shares in had assets of $1.2 million.

2011: Potential candidate to lead the Liberal party

After the party's poor showing in the 2011 election, Michael Ignatieff resigned from the leadership and Justin Trudeau was again seen as a potential candidate to lead the party.

2011: SNC-Lavalin Bribes

Between 2001 and 2011, SNC-Lavalin allegedly paid CA$48 million in bribes in Libya to officials in the government of Muammar Gaddafi.

2011: Statement on personal faith

In 2011, Justin Trudeau stated that his personal faith was an extremely important part of who he was and the values he tried to lead with.

2011: Critic for Post Secondary Education, Youth and Sport

In 2011, Justin Trudeau was appointed to be a critic for post secondary education, youth and sport.

2011: Re-elected in Papineau

In 2011, Justin Trudeau was re-elected in Papineau, as the Liberal Party became the third party in the House of Commons.

March 31, 2012: Won charity boxing match

On March 31, 2012, Justin Trudeau won a charity boxing match against Conservative senator Patrick Brazeau at the Hampton Inn in Ottawa, broadcast live on Sun News.

June 2012: Received calls to reconsider leadership decision

In June 2012, after Bob Rae announced he would not enter the leadership race, Justin Trudeau received a "tsunami" of calls to reconsider his decision to not seek the leadership.

July 2012: Stated he would reconsider decision

In July 2012, Justin Trudeau stated that he would reconsider his earlier decision to not seek the leadership and would announce his final decision at the end of the summer.

September 26, 2012: Reports of leadership bid launch

On September 26, 2012, multiple media outlets started reporting that Justin Trudeau would launch his leadership bid the following week.

October 2, 2012: Launched leadership bid

On October 2, 2012, Justin Trudeau held a rally in Montreal to launch his bid for the leadership of the Liberal Party.

November 26, 2012: Three by-elections

During the leadership campaign, three by-elections were held on November 26, 2012.

March 13, 2013: Garneau dropped out of the leadership race

On March 13, 2013, Garneau dropped out of the leadership race, saying that polling conducted by his campaign showed he would be unable to defeat Trudeau.

April 14, 2013: Declared winner of the leadership election

On April 14, 2013, Justin Trudeau was declared the winner of the Liberal Party leadership election, garnering 80.1% of the votes.

April 2013: Leadership convention held in April

The Liberal Party's leadership convention was held in April 2013, and Bob Rae appointed Justin Trudeau as the party's critic for post-secondary education, youth and amateur sport.

June 2013: Move to Ottawa rental home

In June 2013, two months after becoming the leader of the Liberal Party, Justin Trudeau and his wife, Sophie, sold their home in Montreal and moved to a rented home in Ottawa's Rockcliffe Park.

July 2013: Blind trust set up by BMO Private Banking

In July 2013, Justin Trudeau fulfilled his pledge to park all his assets, excluding real estate holdings, into a blind trust set up by BMO Private Banking. This was considered atypical for opposition Members of Parliament and leaders.

2013: Liberal Party Leadership

In 2013, Justin Trudeau assumed leadership of the Liberal Party, a position he held until his resignation in 2025.

2013: Gave up seat at funeral

In 2013, Justin Trudeau gave up his seat at the funeral of Nelson Mandela, in deference to Irwin Cotler.

2013: Elected as Leader of the Liberal Party

In 2013, Justin Trudeau was elected as leader of the Liberal Party.

August 18, 2014: Home break-in while family was sleeping

On August 18, 2014, Sophie Grégoire and the couple's children were at home when an intruder broke into their house while they were sleeping. The intruder left a threatening note.

2014: Launch of "An economy that benefits us all" video

In 2014, Justin Trudeau released an internet video titled "An economy that benefits us all" prior to the Liberal party convention, outlining his economic platform. He stated that Canada's debt-to-GDP ratios had decreased and that it was time for Ottawa to "step up".

October 19, 2015: Liberals win federal election

On October 19, 2015, Justin Trudeau led the Liberal Party to a decisive victory in the federal election, winning 184 of the 338 seats with 39.5% of the popular vote, marking a gain of 150 seats compared to the 2011 election and forming a strong majority government.

November 4, 2015: Trudeau sworn in as Prime Minister

On November 4, 2015, Justin Trudeau and his Cabinet were sworn in by Governor General David Johnston. Trudeau stated that his first legislative priority would be to lower taxes for middle-income Canadians and raise taxes for the top 1% of income earners, after parliament reconvened on December 3, 2015. He also promised to rebuild relations with Indigenous peoples and run an open, ethical, and transparent government.

December 3, 2015: Parliament reconvened

On December 3, 2015, Justin Trudeau planned to lower taxes for middle-income Canadians and raise taxes for the top 1% of income earners after parliament was reconvened.

2015: Became Prime Minister

In 2015, Justin Trudeau became the 23rd prime minister of Canada, serving until 2025.

2015: Postnational State Remarks

In 2015, Trudeau stated to the New York Times Magazine that Canada could be the "first postnational state".

2015: Prior to Lifting Visa Requirements

In 2015, prior to lifting visa requirements, asylum claims by Mexicans numbered 110.

2015: Liberals win Majority Government

In the 2015 federal election, Justin Trudeau led the Liberals to a majority government, bringing the party from third party status.

2015: Promise to accept refugees from Syria and Iraq

Prior to winning the 2015 election, Justin Trudeau promised to accept 50,000 refugees from Syria and Iraq by the end of 2016.

November 2016: Criticism for Fundraising Tactics

In November 2016, Trudeau was criticized by opposition members for his fundraising tactics, which they saw as "cash for access" schemes. Attendees paid upwards of $1500 for access to him and other cabinet members.

2016: Advisors recommend increasing immigration levels

In 2016, Justin Trudeau's advisors recommended drastically increasing immigration levels to stimulate the economy.

2016: Lifting Visa Requirements for Mexican Citizens

In 2016, Trudeau lifted visa requirements for Mexican citizens, leading to a significant increase in asylum claims.

2016: Canada introduces medically-assisted dying

In 2016, the Canadian government introduced the right to medically-assisted dying. This was part of the Trudeau government's self-described progressive and feminist social policy.

2016: Value of Country Estate Land

In 2016, the country estate land Trudeau and his brothers were given was estimated to be worth $2.7 million.

January 2017: #WelcomeToCanada Tweet

In January 2017, Trudeau tweeted, "To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada." The tweet resulted in increased irregular border crossing.

January 2017: Ethics Investigation Launched

In January 2017, the ethics commissioner, Mary Dawson, began an investigation into Trudeau for a vacation he and his family took to Aga Khan IV's private island in the Bahamas.

December 2017: Ethics Commissioner's Report Released

In December 2017, the ethics commissioner's report found that Trudeau had violated four provisions of the 2006 Conflict of Interest Act, making him the first prime minister to break the modern federal conflict of interest law.

2017: Introduction of Transparency Legislation

In 2017, Trudeau introduced legislation to increase transparency for political fundraisers, aiming to eliminate exclusive events.

2017: Deterioration of Canada-US Relations

In 2017, following Donald Trump becoming president, Canada-US relations deteriorated. The Trump administration forced the renegotiation of NAFTA, leading to the CUSMA, and implemented tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, prompting retaliatory tariffs from Canada.

February 2018: Invitation of Jaspal Atwal to Dinner Party

In February 2018, Trudeau was criticized when his government invited Khalistani nationalist Jaspal Atwal, previously convicted for the shooting and attempted murder of Indian Cabinet minister Malkiat Singh Sidhu in 1986, to the Canadian High Commission's dinner party in Delhi.

December 2018: Arrest of Meng Wanzhou

In December 2018, Meng Wanzhou was arrested at the Vancouver International Airport at the request of the United States, leading to increased tensions with China.

2018: Canada legalizes cannabis

In 2018, Canada legalized cannabis for recreational use under the Trudeau government. This was part of the Trudeau government's self-described progressive and feminist social policy.

2018: Strained Relations with Saudi Arabia

In 2018, Canada's relationship with Saudi Arabia was strained after Canada called for the release of opposition blogger Raif Badawi, leading to Saudi Arabia recalling its ambassador and freezing trade with Canada.

2018: Questioned About Groping Incident

In 2018, Justin Trudeau was questioned about the groping incident that occurred in August 2000, but stated he did not remember any negative incidents from that time.

February 8, 2019: Report of Alleged PMO Influence on SNC-Lavalin Prosecution

On February 8, 2019, The Globe and Mail reported that sources close to the government said that the Prime Minister's Office had allegedly attempted to influence Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould concerning an ongoing prosecution of SNC-Lavalin.

March 19, 2019: Liberal Committee Shut Down Justice Committee Investigation

On March 19, 2019, Liberal committee members voted as a bloc to shut down the Justice Committee's investigation into the SNC-Lavalin affair.

August 14, 2019: Ethics Commissioner's Report on SNC-Lavalin Affair

The commission's final report, issued August 14, 2019, concluded "Mr. Trudeau contravened section 9 of the Act" in regard to criminal charges against SNC-Lavalin in the SNC-Lavalin affair.

September 11, 2019: Request to dissolve Parliament

On September 11, 2019, Justin Trudeau visited Governor General Julie Payette to request the dissolution of Parliament, formally triggering an election. He also announced his intention to only participate in three leaders' debates.

September 2019: Publication of blackface and brownface incidents

In September 2019, controversial pictures and video were published showing Justin Trudeau in brownface and blackface. Trudeau admitted to wearing blackface in high school and could not remember how often he had worn blackface makeup.

September 18, 2019: Publication of brownface photograph in Time magazine

On September 18, 2019, Time magazine published a photograph of Justin Trudeau wearing brownface makeup in the spring of 2001 at an Arabian Nights-themed gala. Trudeau publicly apologized, agreeing the photo was racist and saying he should have known better.

2019: Increased Weapons Sales to Saudi Arabia

In 2019, Canada doubled its weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, despite concerns over human rights issues and the killing of Jamal Khashoggi.

2019: Pledge to ban single use plastic

In 2019, Justin Trudeau pledged to ban single use plastic.

2019: Appointment of Dominic Barton as Ambassador to China

In 2019, Trudeau appointed Liberal advisor, Dominic Barton (McKinsey & Company, Century Initiative) ambassador to China. While Barton negotiated the release of Spavor and Kovrig, Canada-China trade reached historic highs.

2019: Allegations of Chinese government interference in elections

In 2019, allegations of Chinese government interference in the 2019 Canadian federal elections emerged. A Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions was later called in response to these allegations.

2019: Alleged Chinese Interference in the Canadian federal election

In 2019, the People's Republic of China allegedly interfered in the Canadian federal election.

2019: Re-elected with a Minority Government

In the 2019 federal election, Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party was re-elected with a minority government.

2019: 2019 Federal Election

The results of the 2019 federal election were mostly unchanged from the 2021 federal election.

April 2020: Introduction of emergency support programs

In April 2020, Justin Trudeau introduced the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Business Account, and the Canada Emergency Student Benefit to deal with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also deployed the Canadian Forces in long-term care homes in Quebec and Ontario as part of Operation LASER.

May 12, 2020: Exclusive deal reached with CanSino Biologics

On May 12, 2020, the Trudeau government announced it had reached an exclusive deal with CanSino Biologics for COVID-19 vaccines. However, the deal later fell through due to deteriorating Canadian-Chinese relations.

July 3, 2020: Ethics investigation announced into WE Charity ties

On July 3, 2020, the ethics commissioner announced an investigation into Justin Trudeau's and the government's decision to have WE Charity administer a student grant program due to the Trudeau family's ties to the charity. The program aimed to provide financial assistance to students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

July 16, 2020: Ethics investigation expands to include Finance Minister Bill Morneau

On July 16, 2020, the ethics commissioner expanded the investigation into the WE Charity affair to include Finance Minister Bill Morneau. This expansion came amidst scrutiny over the charity's ties to the Trudeau family and payments made to Trudeau's relatives for speaking engagements at WE Charity events.

August 5, 2020: Plan to secure Pfizer and Moderna vaccines

On August 5, 2020, the Trudeau government created a plan to secure doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

December 2020: Implementation of Canada's mass-vaccination program

Starting in December 2020, Justin Trudeau oversaw the implementation of Canada's mass-vaccination program.

2020: COVID-19 Pandemic Response and Other Policies

From 2020, Justin Trudeau responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by launching financial aid measures and a vaccination campaign. His government also announced a ban on "assault-style" weapons and introduced a national $10-a-day child care program.

2020: Failed UN Security Council Bid

In 2020, Canada lost its bid to join the United Nations Security Council.

2020: Joint Federal/Provincial Commission into the Nova Scotia attacks

In 2020, The Joint Federal/Provincial Commission into the 2020 Nova Scotia attacks was launched by Justin Trudeau, in partnership with the Government of Nova Scotia.

2020: COVID-19 pandemic hits Canada

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Canada, halting the Trudeau government's progress in reducing the country's debt-to-GDP ratio. This economic disruption occurred amidst the implementation of progressive and feminist social policies, including advocacy for abortion rights.

2020: Second wave of COVID-19 in Canada

In the fall of 2020, Canada experienced a strong second wave of COVID-19. Throughout the crisis, Trudeau periodically extended the scope and duration of the federal aid programs.

August 15, 2021: Dissolution of Parliament and Election Call

On August 15, 2021, Justin Trudeau advised Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve parliament and scheduled an election for September 20. This decision coincided with the Fall of Kabul, leading to criticism regarding the pace of evacuating Canadian citizens and Afghan supporters.

September 2021: Release of Wanzhou, Spavor and Kovrig

In September 2021, Meng Wanzhou, Michael Spavor, and Michael Kovrig were released at the same time, leading to speculation of a deal between the United States and China. Trudeau greeted Spavor and Kovrig at the airport upon their repatriation.

September 2021: Phase out of federal aid programs

In September 2021, the 2021 Canadian federal budget planned to phase out federal aid programs by the end of the month. While CERB was indeed phased out on September 26, the Canada Recovery Benefit (CBR) continued to provide support until October 23.

December 2021: Resignation of Dominic Barton

In December 2021, Dominic Barton resigned as ambassador to China due to growing pressure from President Joe Biden for Ottawa to take a tougher stance with Beijing.

December 2021: Expansion of Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit

In December 2021, the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit was expanded during the spread of the Omicron variant.

2021: Announcement of National Child Care Plan

In 2021, Justin Trudeau announced the creation of a national child care plan with the intention of reducing day care fees for parents down to $10 a day per child within five years.

2021: Securing a Third Mandate

In 2021, Trudeau secured a third mandate and his second minority government after winning 160 seats in the federal election. Although securing the mandate, the Liberals came in second in the national popular vote, behind the Conservatives. They received 32.6% of the popular vote, the lowest percentage of the national popular vote for a governing party in Canadian history.

2021: Allegations of Chinese government interference in elections

In 2021, allegations of Chinese government interference in the 2021 Canadian federal elections emerged. A Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions was later called in response to these allegations.

2021: Liberals face declining poll numbers and internal frustration

In 2021, following the federal election, the Liberal Party, led by Justin Trudeau, experienced declining poll numbers and disappointing by-election results. This led to internal frustration and discontent with Trudeau's leadership, culminating in a caucus meeting where some members called for his resignation.

2021: Alleged Chinese Interference in the Canadian federal election

In 2021, the People's Republic of China allegedly interfered in the Canadian federal election.

2021: Another Minority Government and Emergencies Act Invocation

In the 2021 federal election, Justin Trudeau led the Liberals to another minority government. He then invoked the Emergencies Act in response to the Freedom Convoy protests.

January 15, 2022: Introduction of vaccine requirements for truckers

On January 15, 2022, the Government of Canada introduced COVID-19 vaccine requirements for truckers to re-enter the country by land, leading to the Canada convoy protest.

February 14, 2022: Invocation of the Emergencies Act

On February 14, 2022, Justin Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act for the first time since it was enacted in 1988, due to the public order emergency caused by demonstrations in Ottawa.

February 23, 2022: Revocation of the emergency declaration

On February 23, 2022, Justin Trudeau announced that the federal government would revoke the emergency declaration related to the demonstrations in Ottawa. Later that day, the governor general signed a proclamation revoking it.

March 22, 2022: Supply and Confidence Agreement with NDP

On March 22, 2022, the Liberals and the NDP entered a supply and confidence agreement. The NDP committed to supporting the Liberals in all votes of confidence for the duration of the 44th Parliament. The Liberal Party would back key NDP priorities, including national dental care for low-income Canadians, national pharmacare, labour reforms for federally-regulated workers, and new taxes on financial institutions.

November 2022: Announcement of increased immigration targets

In November 2022, the Trudeau government announced that Canada would admit 500,000 immigrants per year by 2025.

December 2022: Ban on producing and importing single use plastic

In December 2022, Justin Trudeau's government announced a ban on producing and importing single use plastic.

2022: Reports of Chinese Interference

In 2022, Canadian media reported that the People's Republic of China had made attempts to interfere in the 2019 and 2021 Canadian federal elections.

2022: Consideration of Criminal Charges

In 2022, it was reported that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police had considered bringing criminal charges against Trudeau over the Aga Khan affair.

2022: Russian invasion of Ukraine

In 2022, the Russian establishment leveraged the incident involving Yaroslav Hunka, a Ukrainian Canadian who fought in the SS Division Galicia of the military wing of the Nazi Party, the Waffen-SS, in the House of Commons of Canada to further its justifications for the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

2022: Confidence and Supply Agreement with NDP

In early 2022, Justin Trudeau's party signed a confidence and supply agreement with the New Democratic Party (NDP), leading to the introduction of the Canadian Dental Care Plan and a framework for national pharmacare.

February 17, 2023: Judicial inquiry concludes invocation of Emergencies Act met legal threshold

On February 17, 2023, a judicial inquiry into the use of the Emergencies Act concluded that the Trudeau government met the legal threshold required to invoke the act.

March 2023: Closure of Roxham Road

In March 2023, Roxham Road was closed due to increased strain on services and criticism over the influx of claimants. This decision was influenced by the new terms of the Canada–United States Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) arranged the previous year.

May 2023: Report on Election Interference

In May 2023, David Johnston delivered a report on election interference. It described China's interference as a danger to Canadian democracy, stated that some media reports were partially incorrect, and recommended improvements to counter the threat and protect members of Parliament.

August 2, 2023: Separation from Sophie Grégoire announced

On August 2, 2023, Justin Trudeau announced that he and his wife, Sophie Grégoire, had separated.

September 2023: Allegations of Indian Government Involvement in Nijjar Killing

In September 2023, Trudeau stated that Canada had "credible intelligence" indicating the Indian government's involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, triggering a diplomatic row between Canada and India.

September 22, 2023: Invitation of Yaroslav Hunka to Parliament

On September 22, 2023, Yaroslav Hunka, a Ukrainian Canadian who fought in the SS Division Galicia of the military wing of the Nazi Party, the Waffen-SS, was invited to the House of Commons of Canada and recognized by Speaker Anthony Rota, receiving standing ovations from house members including Justin Trudeau and President Zelenskyy. Trudeau later apologized.

October 7, 2023: Condemnation of Hamas Attack on Israel

On October 7, 2023, Trudeau condemned the Hamas-led surprise attack on Israel and expressed support for Israel's right to self-defence. This attack precipitated the Gaza war.

December 2023: Ban on selling single use plastic

In December 2023, Justin Trudeau's government announced a ban on the sale of those items will be banned.

2023: High number of newcomers

In 2023, Canada reached almost 1 million newcomers (permanent and temporary residents).

2023: Reports of Chinese Interference

In 2023, Canadian media reported that the People's Republic of China had made attempts to interfere in the 2019 and 2021 Canadian federal elections.

2023: Increase of Asylum Claims

In 2023, asylum claims by Mexicans grew to 24,000. Visa requirements had been lifted in 2016.

2023: Government's economic statement

In 2023, the government's economic statement showed a deficit of $61.9 billion for 2023-24, exceeding the previous target of $40.1 billion or less. This occurred amid threats from the incoming Trump administration to impose tariffs on Canada.

May 2024: Preliminary Report on Foreign Interference

In May 2024, the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference issued its preliminary report, finding that China engaged in foreign interference in both the 2019 and 2021 elections, but the interference did not affect the ultimate result of either election.

May 2024: "Housing needs to retain its value" assertion

In a May 2024 interview, Justin Trudeau asserted that "housing needs to retain its value", amidst concerns about housing inflation.

September 2024: NDP Ends Support and No-Confidence Motions

In September 2024, the NDP pulled their support and ended the supply and confidence agreement. The Conservative Party made three failed no-confidence motions in September, October, and December.

October 2024: Announcement of cuts to immigration targets

In October 2024, as Canadians faced cost of living and housing crises, and as Justin Trudeau's unpopularity grew, he announced cuts to immigration targets in a video message.

December 2024: Chrystia Freeland Resignation

In December 2024, Chrystia Freeland resigned as deputy prime minister.

December 2024: Plummet in approval rating

In December 2024, Justin Trudeau's approval rating plummeted to 22%, a significant drop from 65% in 2016.

December 16, 2024: Chrystia Freeland resigns as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

On December 16, 2024, Chrystia Freeland resigned from her positions as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. This occurred hours before she was scheduled to release the government's fall economic statement, raising questions about the future of Trudeau's leadership.

December 20, 2024: NDP Pledge No-Confidence Motion

On December 20, 2024, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh pledged to put forward another no-confidence motion and vote out Trudeau's government.

2024: Spavor Awarded Compensation

In 2024, Michael Spavor was awarded $7 million in compensation for his arrest and detainment in China.

2024: Reinstatement of Visas

In 2024, visas and some restrictions were reinstated for Mexican citizens.

2024: Federal Court rules invocation of Emergencies Act unjustified

In early 2024, Federal Court judge Richard Mosley ruled that the federal government's invocation of the Emergencies Act to end the 2022 convoy protest was "not justified" and infringed on Charter rights.

2024: NDP Withdraws from Agreement and School Food Program Launched

In late 2024, the NDP withdrew from the confidence and supply agreement. Justin Trudeau also launched a national school food program.

2024: Wave of Cabinet Resignations

Throughout 2024, Trudeau's cabinet experienced a wave of resignations. On September 19, Minister of Transport Pablo Rodriguez resigned. On November 20, Alberta MP Randy Boissonnault resigned. On December 15, Housing Minister Sean Fraser announced his intention to leave the federal cabinet in the next shuffle.

January 6, 2025: Trudeau announces resignation as Liberal leader and Prime Minister

On January 6, 2025, Justin Trudeau announced his intention to resign as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister of Canada, citing a need for a "real choice" in the next election and facing internal challenges. He stated he would remain in office until the party elected his successor.

January 2025: Resignation Announcement

In January 2025, Justin Trudeau announced he would resign as prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party.

January 2025: Deterioration of Canada-US Relations

In January 2025, following Donald Trump's second inauguration, Canada-US relations again deteriorated.

March 4, 2025: Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canadian Exports

On March 4, 2025, following Donald Trump's second inauguration, President Trump imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian exports and 10% tariffs on Canadian energy products, with an exemption for the automotive industry set to expire on April 2.

March 5, 2025: Canada Announces Countermeasures

On March 5, 2025, in retaliation to US tariffs, Trudeau announced countermeasures, with Canada imposing 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, effective immediately. These retaliatory tariffs were set to increase to $155 billion within 21 days.

April 2025: Campaigning for Liberal candidate Marjorie Michel

In April 2025, following his resignation, Justin Trudeau made his first public engagement by campaigning for Liberal candidate Marjorie Michel in his former riding of Papineau.

2025: Resignation

In 2025, Justin Trudeau resigned as the 23rd prime minister of Canada.

2025: Ban on exporting single use plastic

In 2025, Justin Trudeau's government announced a ban on the export of single use plastic.

2025: Reports suggest population growth will not be significantly slowed

Reports released in early 2025 suggested that population growth would not be significantly slowed even with the Trudeau government's proposed cuts.

January 2026: Government appeal of ruling on Emergencies Act use lost

In January 2026, the federal government lost its appeal of the ruling that the invocation of the Emergencies Act to end the 2022 convoy protest was "not justified" and infringed on Charter rights.

February 2026: Purchase of family home in Montreal

In February 2026, Justin Trudeau purchased a family home in the Montreal borough of Outremont after announcing his move back to Montreal. The real estate documents indicated he was the sole owner and that he and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau were in the process of divorcing.