The year 1896 marked another turning point in the history of the country. Wilfrid Laurier was the first Canadian of French descent to become prime minister of Canada. As more autonomy and financial resources were granted to the provinces, Québec City was regaining its political and economic stature. The city became known as the “national capital” of Quebec.

Industrialization continued over the first half of the 20th century, partly in response to the two world wars. The city attracted many people from the surrounding countryside. In 1945, Québec City had a population of around 185,000, with many of the residents living in several new working-class neighbourhoods. By this time, nearly 93% of its inhabitants were French-speaking.