The Home Front

Passing the War Measures Act August 1914 This law gave government control over many areas of life For example, the government could arrest and detain “enemy aliens” (immigrants), and the government could tell farmers what to grow

Implemented Personal Income Tax It was supposed to be temporary but became permanent The purpose was to raise money to pay for the war Here's the rare 100 dollar bill. It features a portrait of former Prime Minister Robert Borden, who fearlessly signed the papers when Britain demanded Canada send troops to fight in World War One.

Selling Victory Bonds Another way to raise money: Citizens invested in victory bonds and could cash in bonds with interest when the war was won As if you were lending the government money for the duration of the war

Feeding the Troops Food shortages in Europe made Canada’s supply of food for the troops very important Many soldiers were farmers, so women and teenagers helped to increase food production

Arming the Troops The Imperial Munitions Board (IMB) was created to organize industry to supply ammunition Canada made cargo ships, anti-submarine ships, aircraft, explosives, etc. During the First World War the Sunbeam Motor Car Company produced staff cars and commercial vehicles for the military, ambulances for the Red Cross and engines for aircraft and high-speed naval craft

“Protecting Citizens” The government took away rights of some German and Austro- Hungarian immigrants to “protect” Canadians from the “threat” of these Canadians German Detainees at Edgewood Internment Camp, Edgewood, BC, ca

Supplying Fresh Troops Robert Borden’s government passed the Military Service Act in August 1917, drafting single men aged into the army. This was known as conscription French Canadians were very angry and opposed this law