John Buchan: The novelist who became Canada's first monarch-appointed Governor General

History · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before he was Baron Tweedsmuir, John Buchan was a prolific writer of thrillers and a wartime propagandist. In 1935, he took on the role of Governor General of Canada, where he championed national identity, navigated a royal abdication crisis, and helped secure the first-ever royal tour of North America.

Born in 1875, John Buchan was a polymath whose career spanned law, journalism, and intelligence. By the time he was appointed Governor General of Canada in 1935, he had already authored over a hundred books, including the iconic spy thriller The Thirty-Nine Steps. His appointment was historic; following the 1931 Statute of Westminster, he was the first Governor General decided upon solely by the Canadian monarch acting on the advice of his Canadian council, rather than the British government.

During his tenure, Buchan actively promoted Canadian unity and cultural sovereignty. He famously asserted in 1937 that a Canadian’s primary loyalty was to Canada and its King, a stance that drew ire from some imperialists but reflected his commitment to the nation's independence. He also established the Governor General’s Literary Awards in 1936 to foster local talent and famously encouraged the development of a Canadian film industry, which he presciently envisioned as a potential 'Hollywood in British Columbia.'

Buchan’s time in office was marked by significant constitutional challenges, most notably the 1936 abdication of Edward VIII. As the King’s representative, Buchan navigated the resulting crisis by ensuring Canada’s succession remained aligned with the rest of the Dominions. He also orchestrated the 1939 royal tour of Canada and the United States, a move he believed would unify the country and strengthen democratic ties. Buchan remained in his post until his death in 1940, leaving behind a legacy as both a literary figure and a dedicated public servant.

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