The Last Spike summary

Building a Nation

In The Last Spike by Pierre Berton, we are transported back to the 19th century, when Canada was a young nation. The Canadian Pacific Railway, a monumental project, was proposed to connect the eastern provinces with the west. The book takes us through the history and challenges of this ambitious project, which was essential for the survival and growth of the nation.

The construction of the railway began in 1881, with the promise of completing the project in a record five years. The railway was to be built through some of the most challenging terrains, including the Rocky Mountains, and the construction was marked by harsh weather, treacherous landscapes, and financial difficulties. Berton paints a vivid picture of the immense human effort and sacrifice required to meet the tight deadline.

The People Behind the Project

As The Last Spike progresses, we are introduced to the key figures behind the railway's construction. William Cornelius Van Horne, the general manager of the CPR, emerges as a visionary and a driving force. His remarkable leadership and relentless pursuit of the project's completion against all odds are highlighted. Another notable figure is Donald Smith, who drove the last spike, symbolizing the railway's completion in 1885.

But it wasn't just the big names that made the project a success. Berton also sheds light on the thousands of workers who toiled under extreme conditions. Chinese laborers, in particular, played a significant role, facing severe discrimination and hardships. The book brings their contribution to the forefront, recognizing their crucial part in building the railway.

Challenges and Triumphs

The middle part of The Last Spike delves into the various challenges that the project faced. The financial strain was constant, and the company was on the brink of collapse several times. The infamous Last Spike ceremony was held amidst this financial turmoil, with the railway line still incomplete. However, the symbolic completion of the railway was a turning point, boosting national morale and signaling the birth of a new Canada.

Despite the challenges, the railway's completion had a profound impact. It facilitated the rapid settlement of the western provinces, enabling the transportation of people, goods, and resources. The railway also played a pivotal role in the political unification of Canada, as it helped to secure the allegiance of British Columbia, which had joined the Canadian Confederation on the condition that the railway would be built.

A Legacy of Unity and Division

In the latter part of the book, Berton reflects on the lasting impact of the Canadian Pacific Railway. On one hand, it was a symbol of national unity, physically connecting the vast expanse of Canada. On the other hand, it was also a source of division, as it led to the displacement and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples and sparked tensions between the English and French-speaking populations.

In conclusion, The Last Spike is not just a historical account of a remarkable engineering feat. It is a story of human determination and perseverance, a tale of a young nation's struggle for survival and unity. The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people who built it and its enduring impact on the shaping of Canada.