How has the policy of imperialism effected Canadian independence and culture as a nation?
-
Independence
On July 1, 1867, Canada became independent from the British Empire and became a fully independent, self-governing nation. -
Period: to
The Second Great Era of Imperialism
In the late 1800s many powerful countries such as Britain, France, Germany and the United States attempted to expand their land in a period known as the second great era of imperialism. Britain was responsible for Canada as it was a part of the British Empire until its independence in 1867 -
The Imperial Federation League
In 1884, the British created the Imperial Federation League, which included Canada, and allowed our nation to develop economically and become its own political entity but still apart of the British Empire -
The South African War
In 1899, when Britain and the Afrikaner Republics of Southern Africa went to war, Canada had to make a military decision of whether they would send troops to fight with British forces. Many Canadians approved of choosing to support them but many others such as the French Canadians did not. Finally, Canadian Prime Minister Wilfred Laurier agreed to send support through allowing men to volunteer rather than through conscription/force. -
Entering World War I
In 1914, when the British declared war against Germany, Canada technically went to war as well because the British oversaw the Canadian foreign policy. During the war, a group of Dominions, Canada included, would take part in joint military work, and strategic planning. -
The End of War
In 1918, once the war had ended, Canadian Prime Minister Robert Borden fought and won the right for Canada to have its own signature on the Treaty of Versailles, The treaty that ended the war. -
Period: to
Continuing The Fight for Independence
In the 1920s, Canada continued to fight as an independent nation for its own voice, opinion and choices when it came to foreign affairs. -
The Statute of Westminster
In 1931, The British passed the Statute of Westminster, which is referred to as the Canadian declaration of independence. With it, the country had its choice in parliament on whether they would join World War II, which they eventually did anyways. -
Period: to
The Commonwealth
Today, Canada has remained connected to Britain but as a self-governing body. With that, Britain, Canada and the many independent countries that were once under British rule (e.g. Australia, New Zealand, multiple South African countries) remain peacefully connected in what is now known as the Commonwealth
