Rita Johnston became the first woman premier in Canadian history on April 2, 1991.
On April 2, 1991, Rita Johnston was thrust into the national spotlight when she became the Premier of British Columbia, following the resignation of Bill Vander Zalm. This historic milestone marked her as the first woman to ever hold the position of Premier in Canada. The appointment was significant not only for its immediate political impact but also for its broader cultural implications, as it shattered a significant glass ceiling in Canadian politics. Her leadership at such a pivotal moment provided a new role model for women aspiring to high office.