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On October 5 1970, the FLQ captured the British Trade Commissioner James cross. The kidnappers were four men, three
with machine guns and one with a revolver. They showed up at the couple's home and forced Cross into a Taxi.
After this kidnapping, they sent a message to the authorities that had their demands which included the release of detained
or convicted terrorists,
$500,000 in gold, broadcast and publication of the FLQ Manifesto, and an aircraft to take the kidnappers to Cuba
or Algeria.
Click here to go to the page of the FLQ Manifesto letter
The FLQ Manifesto was published by several newspapers. Radio station CKAC received threats that James Cross would
be killed if their demands were not met.
On october 8, 1970 the FLQ Manifesto was read on the CBC French network Radio-Canada.
Click here for the actual broadcast on CBC! (French)
Days later on October 10, the FLQ kidnapped Quebec Minister of Labour Pierre Laporte. The kidnappers were
equipped with machine guns, when they took him from his home and shoved him into the backseat of their car. Laporte was outside
playing football with his family on the front lawn.
The next day, Premier Bourassa received a letter from Pierre Laporte pleading for his life.
Letter of Pierre Laporte to Robert Bourassa
Letter sent on October 11, 1970
My dear Robert,
I feel like I am writing
the most important letter I have ever written.
For the time being,
I am in perfect health, and I am treated well, even courteously.
In short, the power
to decide over my life is in your hands. If there was only that involved, and the sacrifice of my life would bring good results,
one could accept it ...
You know how my personal
situation deserves to draw attention. I had two brothers, both are now dead. I remain alone as the head of a large family
that comprises my mother, my sisters, my own wife and my children, and the children of Rolland of whom I am the guardian.
My departure would create for them irreparable grief, and you know the ties that bind the members of my family ...
You have the power
of life and death over me, I depend on you and I thank you for it.
Best regards,
Pierre Laporte
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Bernard Lortie