1. Canada

2. National Identity  The Nation struggles to for unity because people are loyal to their regional and ethnic roots.  First people were the Native Americans and Inuit people who settled all over the land.  English and French rivals came in 1600’s and settled the land pushing out the native people.  40% English and 27% French

3. Colonial Rivals  Both countries were trying to profit from the fur trade.  They were fight four wars over the span of 80 years where Britain would finally win the whole region of Canada.  Canada would eventually gain independence in 1867.

4. Conflict between two cultures  When Britain took over, French speaking Canadians were a large portion of the population.  When they gained independence, laws were made to protect the rights of the French speakers.  People of Quebec saw it as their responsibility to protect their heritage and even tried to secede from Canada.

5. Welcoming Diversity, Promoting Unity  Very distinctive characteristic of Canada is diversity.  Canada has about 554,000 native Canadians that live in Canada today.  Canada is considered a leader in telecommunications with having to communicate with the remote regions of their country.

6. Challenges for Canada Today  Natural Resources- Pipelines and destroying forest are killing habitats for native animals. Overfishing is a problem as well.  Urbanization- 77% of people live in cities. Challenges such as housing, pollution, and overcrowding.

7. Links to the U.S.  Largest undefended border in the world and travelers pay a fee to cross the border.  Culture- People close to border enjoy tv and radio stations together and sports teams exist from both countries.  Economic- NAFTA- largest trade block in the world. Free trade for all North America.  Uneven- Canada knows what happens in America, but America has no idea what happens in Canada.

8. Links to the World  Canada is known as a middle power. They work with other middle powers to complete a common goal.  Canada has ports to trade with Asia and Europe.  Part of the Commonwealth, helping make trade, health, and education better in other countries.  Canada is a natural peacekeeper.