Canada’s History

What impact did Europeans have on Canada? The British and the French established settlements across North America In time, Canada was ruled by Great Britain. Quebec – many French speakers 1763 – Great Britain got control of Canada as a result of the French and Indian War 70% of Canadians speak English as a first language 20% speak French – although 81% of people in Quebec speak French as a 1st language (FRANCOPHONE)

Religion… French settlers were Roman Catholic Today, about 80% of people in Quebec are Catholic 44% of all Canadians are Catholic British settlers were non-Catholic Christians. Other religions are practiced as well…Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism (all brought from other nations)

How did Canada become an independent nation? PEACEFULLY!!! By the mid-1860’s, people in Canada wanted to be united They asked the British Parliament to create a constitution allowing for increased self-government Some Canadians worried that the US would invade

Independence cont… The British North American Act of 1867 – put together provinces of N.B., N.S., Ontario, & Quebec. They became known as the Dominion of Canada. Could have own parliament and prime minister NOT allowed to make treaties with other nations REQUIRED to be apart of British military Monarch of Great Britain would be the same for Canada

Independence cont… Many Canadians served under the British in WWI & WWII In 1931 – British Parliament granted independence to Canada 1982 – all links were broken between Canada and Great Britain Exception – the two nations still share the same monarch

What about Quebec? Most Canadians want to keep the French speaking citizens as part of Canada However, some people in Quebec want to be independent. (SEPARATISTS) They believe that Quebec cannot keep its French language and culture in a country where most people have English as a first language. The people have voted on this issue and both results were to keep Quebec part of Canada

Quebec cont… The gov’t of Canada has passed several laws to help Quebec’s citizens preserve their language and culture. Canada is officially bilingual Quebec had been labeled a “distinct society” In Quebec, French is the only official language. English may be used anywhere but only after French. Some are happy, some are not…what will happen?

Government of Canada CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY – the monarch of the UK is head of state and a symbol PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY – citizens elect members of Parliament who then choose a Prime Minister. Constitution – limits the power of the monarch FEDERAL – power is divided between the central gov’t as well as the provinces. Each province has their own parliament and their own leader called a premier. Rights of the people: VOTE – 18 & older Many political parties Travel and Trade Excellent Courts