This video explores unusual and colourful figures in Canadian political history, from national leaders to Lakehead region personalities. Mackenzie King is portrayed as both a major statesman and an eccentric spiritualist who relied on séances. The Lakehead area produced many notable leaders, including technology‑promoting mayor James Conmey and scandal‑ridden politician Charlie Cox.

Finnish immigrants shaped early labour movements and left‑wing politics in the region. Tommy Douglas, father of universal healthcare, frequently visited the area. Walter Assef (“Jolly Wally”), a combative and memorable mayor of Thunder Bay, was known for breaking protocol, feuding publicly, and championing ordinary citizens. His theatrical style, controversies, and populist appeal left a lasting mark on the city’s political identity.

The View From Up Here is a six‑part satirical “found‑footage” documentary series about twentieth‑century history in the Thunder Bay region, hosted by local historian Tom Peotto and built from CKPR TV news clips, regional archival footage, and artifacts from the Thunder Bay Museum.