Trade and Economic Growth
Following the end of World War II, Canada experienced a period of unprecedented prosperity and progress. The restrictive trade policies of the Depression era were replaced by more open agreements such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which later evolved into the World Trade Organization (WTO).
BlankMap-World6.svg: Happenstance et al / derivative work: Danlaycock, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The modern energy industry in Canada was sparked by the discovery of oil in Alberta in 1947. By 1951, a majority of Canadians had access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and clothing.
From 1945 to 1970, Canada’s economy thrived as it fostered closer ties with the United States and other trading partners, making it one of the most robust among industrialized nations. Today, Canadians enjoy one of the highest living standards globally, a testament to their hard work and strong trade relationships, particularly with the United States.
As the nation’s wealth increased, so did its capacity to fund social assistance programs. The Canada Health Act guarantees basic coverage and uniformity across provinces.
The federal government introduced unemployment insurance (now known as “employment insurance”) in 1940. The concept of Old Age Security was introduced as early as 1927, followed by the Canada and Quebec Pension Plans in 1965. Each province and territory provides publicly funded education.
International Engagement
Canada, akin to Australia and New Zealand, gradually evolved its autonomy, enabling it to make substantial contributions on the global stage.
The inception of the Cold War was marked by the incorporation of several liberated Eastern European nations into a Communist bloc under the control of the Soviet Union’s dictator, Josef Stalin. In response, Canada allied with other democratic Western nations to establish the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance. It also partnered with the United States to form the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD).
Furthermore, Canada became a member of various international organizations such as the United Nations (UN). It played a significant role in the UN operation that defended South Korea during the Korean War (1950–53), resulting in 500 fatalities and 1,000 injuries.
Canada has also participated in numerous UN peacekeeping missions in diverse locations including Egypt, Cyprus, and Haiti, as well as other international security operations in regions like former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan.
Canada and Quebec
In the aftermath of World War II, French-Canadian society and culture experienced a period of significant growth and development. This was particularly evident in Quebec, which underwent a period of rapid transformation during the 1960s, a time known as the Quiet Revolution. During this time, many residents of Quebec advocated for separation from Canada.
In response to these developments, the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism was established by Parliament in 1963. This led to the enactment of the Official Languages Act in 1969, which ensured the provision of services in both French and English by the federal government across Canada.
In addition, Canada was instrumental in the establishment of La Francophonie, an international organization of French-speaking countries, in 1970.
Despite the growing momentum for Quebec’s sovereignty, a referendum held in the province in 1980 resulted in a defeat for the movement. Following extensive negotiations, amendments were made to the Constitution in 1982, albeit without Quebec’s consent. A second referendum on sovereignty held in 1995 also resulted in defeat.
However, discussions regarding Quebec’s autonomy within Canada continue to be a vibrant topic of debate and an integral part of the ongoing narrative shaping our nation.
A Changing Society
Over the past half-century, Canada has evolved into a more progressive and open society. This shift in societal values has been accompanied by an increase in educational opportunities at the secondary and postsecondary levels, leading to a rise in the number of women joining the professional workforce.
Historically, many Canadians of Asian descent were denied voting rights in federal and provincial elections. However, by 1948, all restrictions were lifted, with Japanese Canadians being the last group to gain voting rights. In 1960, this right was extended to Aboriginal people. Currently, every Canadian citizen aged 18 and above is eligible to vote.
Canada has a long history of providing refuge to those fleeing oppressive regimes. This includes approximately 37,000 individuals who escaped Soviet rule in Hungary in 1956. Following the Communist victory in the Vietnam War in 1975, Canada welcomed over 50,000 Vietnamese refugees.
The concept of multiculturalism, fueled by immigration during the 19th and 20th centuries, gained momentum. By the 1960s, a third of Canadians had roots that were neither British nor French. These individuals took pride in maintaining their unique cultures within the Canadian mosaic. Today, this cultural diversity enriches the lives of Canadians, particularly those living in urban areas.
Arts and Culture in Canada
Canada’s artistic heritage, which Canadians take great pride in, is rich and varied. Artists from all regions have shaped and defined our culture and creative expression, achieving recognition both domestically and internationally.
In the realm of literature, both in English and French, Canadians have made substantial contributions. Notable authors, poets, historians, educators, and musicians have had a profound cultural impact. Esteemed literary figures include Stephen Leacock, Louis Hémon, Sir Charles G.D. Roberts, Pauline Johnson, Émile Nelligan, Robertson Davies, Margaret Laurence, Mordecai Richler, Joy Kogawa, Michael Ondaatje and Rohinton Mistry.
Musicians such as Sir Ernest MacMillan and Healey Willan have gained fame in Canada and beyond.
In the visual arts sphere, Canada is perhaps best known historically for the Group of Seven, established in 1920. They developed a painting style to capture the rugged wilderness landscapes. Emily Carr depicted the forests and Aboriginal artifacts of the West Coast.
The Automatistes of Quebec were pioneers of modern abstract art in the 1950s, with Jean-Paul Riopelle being particularly notable.
Louis-Philippe Hébert from Quebec was a renowned sculptor of historical figures. Kenojuak Ashevak was a pioneer of modern Inuit art with her etchings, prints, and soapstone sculptures.
Canada has a long-standing and respected history in the performing arts, with a network of regional theatres and globally renowned performing arts companies.
The films of Denys Arcand have gained popularity in Quebec and across the country, earning international awards. Other significant Canadian filmmakers include Norman Jewison and Atom Egoyan. Canadian television also enjoys a popular following.
Sports have thrived in Canada with all provinces and territories producing star athletes and Olympic medal winners at both amateur and professional levels. Basketball was invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891.
Many major league sports feature Canadian talent and in ice hockey, the national sport, Canadian teams have dominated globally.
In 1996 at the Olympic Summer Games, Donovan Bailey became a world record sprinter and double Olympic gold medallist.
Chantal Petitclerc became a world champion wheelchair racer and Paralympic gold medalist.
Wayne Gretzky, one of the greatest hockey players of all time, played for the Edmonton Oilers from 1979 to 1988.
In 1980, Terry Fox from British Columbia began a cross-country run called the “Marathon of Hope” to raise money for cancer research after losing his right leg to cancer at age 18. He became a hero to Canadians. Although he did not complete the run and ultimately lost his battle with cancer, his legacy continues through annual fundraising events held in his name.
In 1985, fellow British Columbian Rick Hansen circled the globe in a wheelchair to raise funds for spinal cord research.
Canadian advances in science and technology are globally renowned and have revolutionized how the world communicates and conducts business. Pioneer thinkers Marshall McLuhan and Harold Innis are from Canada.
Science and research in Canada have won international recognition attracting world-class students, academics and entrepreneurs engaged in medical research, and telecommunications among other fields. Since 1989, the Canadian Space Agency along with Canadian astronauts have participated in space exploration often using the Canadian-designed and built Canadarm.
Great Canadian Discoveries and Inventions
Canadians have been at the forefront of numerous significant discoveries and inventions. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Alexander Graham Bell, while at his summer residence in Canada, conceived the idea of the telephone.
- Joseph-Armand Bombardier is credited with the invention of the snowmobile, a lightweight vehicle designed for winter use.
- The global system of standard time zones was the brainchild of Sir Sandford Fleming.
- Mathew Evans and Henry Woodward collaborated to invent the first electric light bulb. They later sold their patent to Thomas Edison, who is more widely known for commercializing the light bulb.
- Reginald Fessenden played a significant role in the invention of radio, transmitting the world’s first wireless voice message.
- Renowned as “the greatest living Canadian,” Dr. Wilder Penfield was a pioneering brain surgeon at McGill University in Montreal.
- Dr. John A. Hopps invented the first cardiac pacemaker, a device that continues to save lives by treating heart disorders.
- The Canadarm, a robotic arm used in outer space, was invented by SPAR Aerospace / National Research Council.
- Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, from Research in Motion (RIM) — a wireless communications company — are known for their most famous invention, the BlackBerry.
- Finally, Sir Frederick Banting of Toronto and Charles Best discovered Insulin, a hormone used to treat diabetes. This groundbreaking discovery has saved an estimated 16 million lives worldwide.
Significant Canadian Personalities and Their Contributions
| Famous Person | Known For |
|---|---|
| Stephen Leacock | Man of letters |
| Louis Hémon | Man of letters |
| Sir Charles G.D. Roberts | Man of letters |
| Pauline Johnson | Woman of letters |
| Émile Nelligan | Man of letters |
| Robertson Davies | Man of letters |
| Margaret Laurence | Woman of letters |
| Mordecai Richler | Man of letters |
| Sir Ernest MacMillan | Renowned musician in Canada and abroad |
| Healey Willan | Renowned musician in Canada and abroad |
| Joy Kogawa | Diversified Canada’s literary experience |
| Michael Ondaatje | Diversified Canada’s literary experience |
| Rohinton Mistry | Diversified Canada’s literary experience |
| Emily Carr | Painted the forests and Aboriginal artifacts of the West Coast |
| Tom Thomson | Painted The Jack Pine |
| Jean-Paul Riopelle | Pioneer of modern abstract art in the 1950s |
| Louis-Philippe Hébert | Celebrated sculptor of historical figures |
| Kenojuak Ashevak | Pioneered modern Inuit art with etchings, prints and soapstone sculptures |
| Denys Arcand | Popular filmmaker in Quebec and across the country, won international awards |
| Norman Jewison | Noteworthy Canadian filmmaker |
| Atom Egoyan | Noteworthy Canadian filmmaker |
| James Naismith | Invented Basketball in 1891 |
| Donovan Bailey | World record sprinter and double Olympic gold medallist in 1996 at the Olympic Summer Games |
| Chantal Petitclerc | World champion wheelchair racer and Paralympic gold medalist |
| Wayne Gretzky | One of the greatest hockey players of all time, played for the Edmonton Oilers from 1979 to 1988 |
| Paul Henderson | Scored the winning goal for Canada in the Canada-Soviet Summit Series |
| Terry Fox | Began a cross-country run, the “Marathon of Hope,” to raise money for cancer research. Became a hero to Canadians. His legacy continues through yearly fundraising events in his name. |
| Rick Hansen | Circled the globe in a wheelchair to raise funds for spinal cord research. |
| Mark Tewksbury | Olympic gold medallist and prominent activist for gay and lesbian Canadians |
| Catriona Le May Doan | Carried the flag after winning a gold medal in speed skating at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games |
| Lord Grey | Donated the championship Grey Cup for the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 1909 |
| Alexander Graham Bell | Hit on the idea of the telephone at his summer house in Canada |
| Joseph-Armand Bombardier | Invented the snowmobile, a light-weight winter vehicle |
| Sir Sandford Fleming | Invented the world system of standard time zones |
| Mathew Evans and Henry Woodward | Together invented the first electric light bulb and later sold the patent to Thomas Edison |
| Reginald Fessenden | Contributed to the invention of radio, sending the first wireless voice message in the world |
| Dr. Wilder Penfield | A pioneering brain surgeon at McGill University in Montreal, known as “the greatest living Canadian” |
| Dr. John A. Hopps | Invented the first cardiac pacemaker, used today to save the lives of people with heart disorders |
| SPAR Aerospace / National Research Council | Invented the Canadarm, a robotic arm used in outer space |
| Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie | Of Research in Motion (RIM) — a wireless communications company known for its most famous invention, the BlackBerry |
| Sir Frederick Banting | Discovered Insulin, a hormone to treat diabetes |
| Charles Best | Worked with Sir Frederick Banting in the discovery of Insulin |
Frequently Asked Questions
What event in 1947 sparked the beginning of Canada’s modern energy industry?
The discovery of oil in Alberta in 1947 sparked the beginning of Canada’s modern energy industry.
How did Canada’s economy perform from 1945 to 1970, and what were the contributing factors?
From 1945 to 1970, Canada’s economy thrived, making it one of the most robust among industrialized nations. This economic strength was largely due to the country’s closer ties with the United States and other trading partners.
What factors contribute to Canada’s high standard of living today?
Canadians enjoy one of the highest standards of living globally today, thanks to their hard work and strong trade relationships, particularly with the United States.
What are some of the social assistance programs available in Canada, and when were they introduced?
Canada offers several social assistance programs. The Canada Health Act guarantees basic coverage and uniformity across provinces, unemployment insurance (now known as “employment insurance”) was introduced by the federal government in 1940, Old Age Security was introduced as early as 1927, and the Canada and Quebec Pension Plans were introduced in 1965. Publicly funded education is provided by each province and territory.
How did the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) impact Canada’s post-war prosperity?
The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which later evolved into the World Trade Organization (WTO), replaced the restrictive trade policies of the Depression era with more open agreements. This shift played a significant role in driving post-war prosperity in Canada.
How did Canada develop its autonomy?
Canada, similar to Australia and New Zealand, gradually developed its autonomy, which allowed it to make significant contributions on an international level.
What marked the beginning of the Cold War?
The Cold War began when several liberated Eastern European countries were incorporated into a Communist bloc under the control of the Soviet Union’s dictator, Josef Stalin.
What alliances did Canada form during the Cold War?
During the Cold War, Canada joined other democratic Western nations to form the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance. It also partnered with the United States to establish the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD).
What international organizations did Canada join?
Canada became a member of various international organizations such as the United Nations (UN).
What was Canada’s role in the Korean War?
Canada participated in the UN operation that defended South Korea during the Korean War (1950–53), which resulted in 500 fatalities and 1,000 injuries.
Where has Canada participated in UN peacekeeping missions?
Canada has participated in numerous UN peacekeeping missions in diverse locations including Egypt, Cyprus, and Haiti, as well as other international security operations in regions like former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan.
What is the Quiet Revolution?
The Quiet Revolution refers to a period of rapid change in Quebec during the 1960s. It was a time when many Quebecers advocated for separation from Canada.
What is the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism?
Established by Parliament in 1963, the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism led to the enactment of the Official Languages Act in 1969.
What is the Official Languages Act?
The Official Languages Act, enacted in 1969, guarantees the provision of services in both French and English by the federal government across Canada.
What is La Francophonie?
La Francophonie is an international organization of French-speaking countries, which was established in 1970 with Canada’s help.
What were the results of the referendums on Quebec’s sovereignty?
The movement for Quebec’s sovereignty was defeated in two referendums held in 1980 and 1995.
What is the current status of Quebec’s autonomy within Canada?
Despite the defeat in two referendums, discussions regarding Quebec’s autonomy within Canada continue to be a vibrant topic of debate.
How has Canada’s society changed over the past 50 years?
Over the past half-century, Canada has evolved into a more progressive and open society. This shift in societal values has been accompanied by an increase in educational opportunities at the secondary and postsecondary levels, leading to a rise in the number of women joining the professional workforce.
When were voting rights extended to all Canadians?
Historically, many Canadians of Asian descent were denied voting rights in federal and provincial elections. However, by 1948, all restrictions were lifted, with Japanese Canadians being the last group to gain voting rights. In 1960, this right was extended to Aboriginal people.
Has Canada provided refuge to individuals fleeing oppressive regimes?
Yes, Canada has a long history of providing refuge to those fleeing oppressive regimes. This includes approximately 37,000 individuals who escaped Soviet rule in Hungary in 1956 and over 50,000 Vietnamese refugees following the Communist victory in the Vietnam War in 1975.
What is the impact of multiculturalism in Canada?
The concept of multiculturalism, fueled by immigration during the 19th and 20th centuries, gained momentum. By the 1960s, a third of Canadians had roots that were neither British nor French. These individuals took pride in maintaining their unique cultures within the Canadian mosaic. Today, this cultural diversity enriches the lives of Canadians, particularly those living in urban areas.
Who are some of the notable literary figures in Canada?
Some of the notable literary figures in Canada include Stephen Leacock, Louis Hémon, Sir Charles G.D. Roberts, Pauline Johnson, Émile Nelligan, Robertson Davies, Margaret Laurence, Mordecai Richler, Joy Kogawa, Michael Ondaatje and Rohinton Mistry.
Who are some of the renowned musicians in Canada?
Renowned musicians from Canada include Sir Ernest MacMillan and Healey Willan.
What is the Group of Seven known for in the visual arts sphere?
The Group of Seven, established in 1920, is known for developing a painting style to capture the rugged wilderness landscapes of Canada.
Who was Emily Carr and what did she paint?
Emily Carr was a Canadian artist known for her paintings of the forests and Aboriginal artifacts of the West Coast.
Who were the Automatistes of Quebec and what were they known for?
The Automatistes of Quebec were pioneers of modern abstract art in the 1950s. Jean-Paul Riopelle was a particularly notable member of this group.
Who was Louis-Philippe Hébert and what was he known for?
Louis-Philippe Hébert from Quebec was a renowned sculptor known for his sculptures of historical figures.
Who was Kenojuak Ashevak and what was she known for?
Kenojuak Ashevak was a pioneer of modern Inuit art known for her etchings, prints, and soapstone sculptures.
What is Canada’s history in the performing arts?
Canada has a long-standing and respected history in the performing arts, with a network of regional theatres and globally renowned performing arts companies.
Who is Denys Arcand and what is he known for?
Denys Arcand is a Canadian filmmaker whose films have gained popularity in Quebec and across the country, earning international awards.
Who are some other noteworthy Canadian filmmakers?
Other significant Canadian filmmakers include Norman Jewison and Atom Egoyan.
What sports have flourished in Canada?
Sports such as basketball and ice hockey have flourished in Canada with all provinces and territories producing star athletes and Olympic medal winners at both amateur and professional levels.
Who invented basketball and where was he from?
Basketball was invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891.
What achievements did Donovan Bailey and Chantal Petitclerc have in sports?
In 1996 at the Olympic Summer Games, Donovan Bailey became a world record sprinter and double Olympic gold medallist. Chantal Petitclerc became a world champion wheelchair racer and Paralympic gold medalist.
Who is Wayne Gretzky and which team did he play for?
Wayne Gretzky, one of the greatest hockey players of all time, played for the Edmonton Oilers from 1979 to 1988.
What is the “Marathon of Hope” and who started it?
The “Marathon of Hope” was a cross-country run started by Terry Fox from British Columbia to raise money for cancer research after losing his right leg to cancer at age 18.
What did Rick Hansen do to raise funds for spinal cord research?
In 1985, Rick Hansen from British Columbia circled the globe in a wheelchair to raise funds for spinal cord research.
What are some of the Canadian advances in science and technology that are globally renowned?
Canadian advances in science and technology that are globally renowned include contributions to medical research, and telecommunications among other fields.
Who were Marshall McLuhan and Harold Innis?
Marshall McLuhan and Harold Innis were pioneer thinkers from Canada who made significant contributions to their respective fields.
What recognition has science and research in Canada won internationally?
Science and research in Canada have won international recognition attracting world-class students, academics and entrepreneurs engaged in various fields.
What role has the Canadian Space Agency played in space exploration?
Since 1989, the Canadian Space Agency along with Canadian astronauts have participated in space exploration often using the Canadian-designed and built Canadarm.
Who conceived the idea of the telephone?
Alexander Graham Bell conceived the idea of the telephone while at his summer residence in Canada.
What is Joseph-Armand Bombardier known for?
Joseph-Armand Bombardier is credited with the invention of the snowmobile, a lightweight vehicle designed for winter use.
Who invented the global system of standard time zones?
The global system of standard time zones was the brainchild of Sir Sandford Fleming.
Who invented the first electric light bulb?
Mathew Evans and Henry Woodward collaborated to invent the first electric light bulb. They later sold their patent to Thomas Edison, who is more widely known for commercializing the light bulb.
What role did Reginald Fessenden play in the invention of radio?
Reginald Fessenden played a significant role in the invention of radio, transmitting the world’s first wireless voice message.
Who was Dr. Wilder Penfield?
Renowned as “the greatest living Canadian,” Dr. Wilder Penfield was a pioneering brain surgeon at McGill University in Montreal.
What did Dr. John A. Hopps invent?
Dr. John A. Hopps invented the first cardiac pacemaker, a device that continues to save lives by treating heart disorders.
Who invented the Canadarm?
The Canadarm, a robotic arm used in outer space, was invented by SPAR Aerospace / National Research Council.
What is Research in Motion (RIM) known for?
Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, from Research in Motion (RIM) — a wireless communications company — are known for their most famous invention, the BlackBerry.
Who discovered Insulin and what impact has it had?
Sir Frederick Banting of Toronto and Charles Best discovered Insulin, a hormone used to treat diabetes. This groundbreaking discovery has saved an estimated 16 million lives worldwide.
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