1866: The American Fenian Invasion of Canada

1866: The American Fenian Invasion of Canada

Interrupted by the Civil War after capturing half of Mexico, America's thirst for expansion continues. Canada is next. The vulnerable British colony is invaded by an army of Fenians - Irish-American Civil War veterans - who intend to create America's 37th state where they will have religious and political freedom. New Ireland. This will also provide a useful bargaining chip in their centuries-long quest to free Ireland from British tyranny. It seems politically expedient for American authorities in the White House, aware of the Fenians' plans, not to interfere. At his father's insistence, Toronto medical student William Tempest has begun military training with the Queen's Own Rifles in Toronto. Despite rumors from south of the border, he doesn't believe an invasion is about to happen, but when the army of seasoned veterans crosses the Canadian border, he is forced to leave his young wife and unborn child to pick up a gun and defend his country. 1866 is a dramatic retelling of true events that propelled Canada into nationhood.