Reform movement (pre-Confederation Canada)
In Upper Canada (Ontario), the Reform movement was formed in opposition to the Family Compact. It was led initially by William Lyon Mackenzie, who became the principal figure in the Upper Canada Rebellion of 1837. Mackenzie went into exile as a result of the failed rebellion. The uprising led to the 1839 Durham Report, which recommended responsible government and the union of Upper and Lower Canada as a means of assimilating Francophones. Only the union of the Canadas was to be immediately implemented.
Upper Canada Guardian
Being the first politically critical newspapers in Upper Canada in the 19th century, the "Upper Canada Guardian" gave Willcocks the opportunity to lead groups in opposition of the administration. Although his jail prosecution served as a minor setback, it also gained him the sympathy of the victims of the issues that he addressed (such as small farmers and/or loyalists who wanted land grant privileges), a seat in parliament and more readers. Willcocks claimed he was the: “only man in Canada that dare speak the truth.” Even though controversy creates problems, there are some benefits that can always be gained from them eventually. In this case, Joseph Willcocks gained the reputation of a man who was not afraid to publish his opinion to the public; a near first in Upper Canada in the early 19th century. Even though the "Upper Canada Guardian" exhibited Willcocks' seditiousness against the government, it was not his goal to be perceived as a radical personage:
"It is not my intention, Gentlemen, by a recital of sufferings, to influence or irritate the minds of an injured, insulted, and loyal people. No: but it is my intention and my wish to impress upon the public mind the indispensable necessity there is of sending men to the new parliament, whose livelihood or prospects in life do not depend upon the will or caprice of any tyrannic individual, and whose principles are unambitious, and beyond the reach of corruption."
The "Upper Canada Guardian" was Willcocks' biggest achievement because it initiated opposition through action and press in Upper Canada in the 19th century.