Metcalfe, Charles Theophilus (1785-1846), Baron Metcalfe, a British statesman, served as governor general of Canada from 1843 to 1845. He clashed with members of the Canadian Cabinet by making official appointments without first seeking their advice. This conflict continued a bitter struggle between the Reform and Conservative parties over responsible government (self-government). The election of 1844 showed that a small majority favored Metcalfe’s policy. But poor health soon forced him to resign.
Metcalfe was born in Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, on Jan. 30, 1785. He attended Eton College in England. He served in the British civil service in India from 1801 to 1836, and as governor of Jamaica from 1839 to 1842. He died on Sept. 5, 1846.
