Louis Riel was a leader of the Métis people in western Canada in the late 1800s. He led two rebellions - the Red River Rebellion of 1869-70 and the North-West Rebellion of 1885 - to fight for Métis land rights and autonomy. While viewed as a hero by the Métis, he was seen as a traitor by others due to his execution for treason in 1885. His legacy continues to be debated, as he played a significant role in the formation of Manitoba and in defending indigenous rights in Canada.