What level of legislation supported the confinement of mentally ill patients in late 19th century Canada?

The confinement of mentally ill patients in late 19th century Canada was primarily supported by provincial legislation. During this time, provinces were responsible for the care and management of individuals with mental illnesses. Each province enacted its own laws to establish asylums and set regulations regarding the admission, treatment, and confinement of patients. This decentralized approach allowed for varied practices across the country, contingent upon the particular needs and policies of each province. Moreover, the provincial legislation reflected broader public attitudes and societal understanding of mental health at the time, which leaned towards segregation and institutionalization as methods of dealing with mental illness. This historical context highlights the significant role that provincial governments played in the treatment and confinement of individuals, as opposed to federal, municipal, or international frameworks, which did not focus on mental health in the same localized manner.