SS11- Provincial Exam Essay Prep

Canada’s identity has greatly changed in the years of 1914-1980. Throughout these decades, Canada participated in
various international affairs: World War One (WWI), World War Two (WWII), and post war effects. During the course of
these world-wide wars, Canada’s autonomy began to form. From getting a seat in the League of Nations to earning a
reputation as a peacekeeper- this country was no longer Britain’s little brother.

In the midst of WWI, when Britain declared war on Germany; Canada was automatically at war. However this war,
more or less, was a start of Canada’s independence. Canada proved to be valiant fighters during the four land battles:
Battle of Ypres, Battle of Sommes, Battle of Passchendaele, and Battle of Vimy Ridge. Most importantly, the Battle of Vimy
Ridge was the first time in which Canadian units fought as one. This symbolized Canada’s independence and nationhood.
As a result of its great efforts and contributions, Canada earned reputation as being best troops on Western Front. Shortly
after the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, Canada earned a seat in the Paris Peace Conference and League of
Nations. Both of which were hoped to prevent future wars.

The end of WWI was really just “part one,” since the League of Nations failed. In the outbreaks of WWII, Canada was
granted some freedom. The Treaty of Versailles signed on 1919 proved its benefits, as now Canada’s international affairs
were separate from Great Britain’s. When Britain entered WWII because Germany attacked its ally; Canada was not
obligated to participate. Instead, after a week into the war did Canada decide to “help out.” With regards to the British
Commonwealth and its past strong ties with Britain, Canada decided to declare war on Germany. However, this time
Canada was completely separate Britain. Many Canadians were disappointed of another war, fearing that it’d pose an
economic threat shortly after recovering from the Great Depression. There were, however, some Canadians that felt
nostalgic or were not occupied and decided to join voluntarily. Needless to say, conscription was not imposed. The British
Commonwealth Air-Training Plan (BCAP), was hosted in Canada, and thus our identity started to grow even bigger, as
Canada showed its national commitment and earned more respect. Although many Canadians were killed wounded, or
captured, WWII became a defining event in the development of Canada’s identity.

After the catastrophic events of WWI and WWII, less major wars occurred: Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Cold
War. Once again, Canada played a large. Its commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), showed the
country’s growing nationalism. North American Air Defence Command (NORAD), which was created in allegiance with the
US, included fighter forces, missile bases, etc. The United Nations (UN), which also included a seat for Canada was a great
success. It is based on the idea of collective security like the League of nations, but this time the nations of the world were
ready to support it. Through a variety of UN agencies, Canada has aided refugees from war or natural disasters and
worked on development projects in various countries. The Suez Canal Crisis, another dispute and battle, would not have
been as efficiently solved without Lester Pearson, 14th Canadian Prime Minister. His idea of the United Nations Emergency
Force to diffuse the Suez Canal proved victorious. For his efforts, Pearson was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Now,
Canada’s identity is also recognized for its achievements, and takes on role as peacekeeper.

Through fighting in different countries, we gained our autonomy. In only decades, Canada evolved from minimal
independence to a complete nation. Canada’s first steps in WWI came a long way. Once Britain’s little brother, it is now a
fully developed country. Canada had participated in various peacekeeping missions, strengthening its identity. Its hard
efforts earned them respect. This country, will never, be the same as before.