Series consists of subject files which document John Diefenbaker's personal and political activities between 1940 and 1956. Within the alphabetical arrangement of the series, there are four significant files: Constituency Files, Diefenbaker files, Election files and Progressive Conservative Party files.
The Constituency files contain all correspondence and documents generated by Diefenbaker's constituents of the Lake Centre and Prince Albert ridings. Records include general subject files, files about Progressive Conservative party affairs within the constituency and requests from constituents for assistance in dealing with the federal government in matters of pensions, unemployment and taxation. Election files, however, are arranged separately. The Diefenbaker files contain personal records such as financial records, invitations, and requests for assistance from persons outside of Diefenbaker's constituency. The file also includes correspondence of a general nature. The Election file includes all material on the general elections from 1940 to 1953, federal by-elections, and provincial elections. The Progressive Conservative Party file consists of files relating to the 1942, 1948 and 1956 leadership conventions, national and provincial organizations and the development of policy positions.
Other files (arranged within the alphabetical subject files framework) highlight several other aspects of Diefenbaker's career during the 1940-1956 period. His work on the Bill of Rights, defence of civil liberties, and work towards the strengthening of Commonwealth ties are well documented in the series. Other files provide information on Diefenbaker's concern about Indian affairs, grain sales and transportation, labour organizations and the Trans-Canada Pipeline debate. Some George Drew material, perhaps left in the Leader of the Opposition's office after his retirement, is also located in this series. These files are arranged together.
Available on microfilm reels M-7414 to M-7454.
