Dufferin and Ava, Marquess of (1826-1902), was a successful British diplomat who served as governor general of Canada from 1872 to 1878. As governor general, Dufferin helped convince the province of British Columbia to end its threat to withdraw from Canada during a delay in extending railroad service to the province. He also encouraged the province of Prince Edward Island to become part of Canada. Dufferin later served as British ambassador to Russia, the Ottoman Empire, Italy, and France. He was viceroy (ruler) of India from 1884 to 1888.
Dufferin was born on June 21, 1826, in Florence, Italy. His given and family name was Frederick Temple Blackwood. He received his title in 1888. Dufferin died on Feb. 12, 1902.
