Why didn't people in Canada want to confederate in 1867?

The problems with confederation were the same that the United States faced in the 1780s. Provinces with smaller populations were concerned that their interests would be outvoted by larger provinces. The solution was similar also; a bicameral Parliament.

Newfoundland and Labrador chose to remain a separate colony as her fisheries were valuable to the UK.

Quebec's francophone population wanted the same cultural assurances they had within the Empire.

The people of Canada could not agree on this.