The 1878 provincial election in British Columbia was a significant event in the province's political history. The election saw the defeat of the incumbent government, led by Premier Andrew Charles Elliott, and the rise of a new government led by Premier George Anthony Walkem.

One of the key issues of the campaign was the need for economic growth and development in the province. The government, led by Premier Andrew Charles Elliott, campaigned on a platform that emphasized their commitment to economic growth and job creation. The party argued that their policies would help to stimulate economic development in the province and create new opportunities for British Columbians.

The opposition, on the other hand, criticized the government's record on economic growth and argued that they had not done enough to promote job creation and economic development. The opposition also raised concerns about government corruption and called for greater transparency and accountability in government.

Another important issue of the campaign was the need for social and economic justice. Both the government and the opposition supported social welfare measures, such as the establishment of a minimum wage law and the expansion of the province's social welfare programs. However, the government emphasized the importance of private enterprise and free market principles, while the opposition called for greater government intervention in the economy.

The election was held on July 16, 1878, and the opposition emerged victorious, winning 17 seats compared to the government's 8. The opposition won a majority of the popular vote, with 57.8% compared to the government's 42.2%. The remaining seats were won by independents and members of smaller parties.

Following the election, George Anthony Walkem became the new premier of British Columbia and the new government began to implement its campaign promises. The government continued to emphasize economic growth and development, with some concessions made in the area of social welfare. The government established a minimum wage law and expanded the province's social welfare programs, while also emphasizing the importance of private enterprise and free market principles.

In conclusion, the 1878 provincial election in British Columbia saw the defeat of the incumbent government led by Premier Andrew Charles Elliott, and the rise of a new government led by Premier George Anthony Walkem. The campaign was dominated by debates over the need for economic growth and development and the need for social and economic justice. The election results led to a period of government in the province, with policies that emphasized economic growth and development, social welfare, and free market principles.