Ishbel and Empire: A Biography of Lady Aberdeen

Lady Ishbel, Marchioness of Aberdeen and Temair, was born into an affluent and politically active London family. She came to Ottawa as the wife of Lord Aberdeen, newly appointed Governor General, in 1893.

A born leader leader of women, she lent the weight of her position to a multitude of causes - both political and social. Her ardent support for the Leader of the Opposition, Wilfrid Laurier, and the controversial role played by the Governor General in the selection of Canada's seventh Prime Minister remain intriguing questions today.

The Aberdeens served a second viceregal term in Ireland during the troubled years from 1905 to 1916. On their return to England, despite declining family fortunes, Lady Aberdeen continued to work determinedly for both political and social reform.