Manitoba has always been a province in the middle, geographically, economically, and culturally. Lacking Quebecâs cultural distinctiveness, Ontarioâs traditional economic dominance, or Albertaâs combustible mix of prairie populism and oil wealth, Manitoba appears to blend into the background of the Canadian family portrait. But Manitoba has a distinct political culture, one that has been overlooked in contemporary political studies. Manitoba Politics and Government brings together the work of political scientists, historians, sociologists, economists, public servants, and journalists to present a comprehensive analysis of the provinceâs political life and its careful âmutual fund modelâ approach to economic and social policy that mirrors the steady and cautious nature of its citizens. Moving beyond the Legislature, the authors address contemporary social issues like poverty, environmental stewardship, gender equality, health care, and the provinceâs growing Aboriginal population to reveal the evolution of public policy in the province. They also examine the provinceâs role at the intergovernmental and international level. Manitoba Politics and Government is a rich and fascinating account of a province that strives for the centre, for the delicate middle ground where individualism and collectivism overlap, and where a multitude of different cultures and traditions create a highly balanced society.