The North-West Rebellion emerged from deep-seated grievances among the Métis in Saskatchewan regarding federal government policies and the encroachment of settlers on their lands. Louis Riel, a central figure and leader of the Métis, returned from exile with the aim of advocating for the rights of his people. In March, the Métis gathered forces at Batoche, where Riel and his followers prepared to confront Canadian authorities. The rebellion was rooted in issues such as land rights, cultural preservation, and self-determination within a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.

As tensions escalated, the Métis faced a well-organized Canadian military response. The conflict saw several skirmishes, including the Battle of Duck Lake, where the Métis achieved an initial victory. However, as more Canadian troops were deployed, the Métis found themselves at a disadvantage. The fighting culminated in the eventual defeat of the Métis forces at Batoche in May. Riel was captured, leading to his trial and eventual execution in 1886, further cementing his legacy as a martyr for the Métis cause.

The North-West Rebellion and its aftermath prompted discussions about Métis rights and relations with Indigenous peoples in Canada. It illustrated the broader struggles for land and autonomy faced by Indigenous groups and highlighted the complexities of colonial encounters. Following the rebellion, there was a growing movement for recognition of Métis rights, and the event remains pivotal in discussions surrounding Indigenous identity in Canada.