Mel Hurtig: Canadian Publisher, Author and Political Activist

Mel Hurtig (1932–2016) was a Canadian publisher and writer, founder of Hurtig Publishers and The Canadian Encyclopedia, a cultural leader and outspoken political activist honored as an Officer of the Order of Canada.

Overview

Mel Hurtig (June 24, 1932 – August 3, 2016) was a Canadian publisher, author, and public activist known for promoting Canadian culture and national sovereignty through books and institutions. He combined commercial publishing with civic advocacy, and his work included the production of major reference works and outspoken critiques of federal policy.

Career and publishing

Hurtig built a career in the book trade, founding Hurtig Publishers and producing influential reference material, most notably The Canadian Encyclopedia. Through his publishing ventures he sought to make Canadian history, politics and culture more accessible to the public and to counterbalance foreign influences in the marketplace.

Political activism and candidacy

Beyond publishing, Hurtig was an active participant in public debates about Canada’s economic and cultural direction. He wrote books and essays critical of particular federal policies and argued for stronger national control over resources and culture. He also stood as a political candidate on more than one occasion, bringing his critiques onto the public stage.

Public roles and honours

Hurtig held civic positions such as president of the Edmonton Art Gallery and other community institutions. In recognition of his contributions to Canadian letters and public life he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1980. He remained a prominent public figure in Edmonton and across Canada.

Legacy and notable facts

Founder of Hurtig Publishers and a driving force behind The Canadian Encyclopedia.
Known for combining publishing with political advocacy on national issues.
Served in cultural leadership roles in Edmonton.
Recognized with national honours for his civic contributions.

Mel Hurtig died in Edmonton on August 3, 2016, at age 84 from complications related to pneumonia. For further reading see his Order of Canada citation and contemporary accounts of his work: Order of Canada citation, biographical overview, Edmonton profile, Alberta cultural history, and a contemporaneous obituary.