Family Compact
Britishnoun
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the ruling oligarchy in Upper Canada in the early 19th century
-
(often not capitals) any influential clique
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Family Compact were alarmed, and before any steps could be taken towards entering upon the proposed inquiry they prevailed upon the Governor, Francis Gore, to prorogue the House.
From The Canadian Portrait Gallery - Volumes 1 to 4 by Dent, John Charles
Spain appealed to France for her aid by the terms of the Family Compact.
From A History of the Four Georges and of William IV, Volume III by McCarthy, Justin
Too many of our historians write as if all the members of the Family Compact had been selfish and corrupt, and all our present statesmen were altruistic and pure.
From The Tribune of Nova Scotia A Chronicle of Joseph Howe by Grant, W. L. (William Lawson)
In Upper Canada, the Conservative and Family Compact group had to face a vigorous Reforming opposition.
From British Supremacy & Canadian Self-Government, 1839-1854 by Morison, J. L. (John Lyle)
Sir Charles chose his associates and advisers from among the members of the defunct Family Compact.
From The Canadian Portrait Gallery - Volumes 1 to 4 by Dent, John Charles
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
