What is a nation state? Social Studies 20-1

Let’s put two definitions together Nation - a group of people who share the same history, geography, language, customs and sometimes religion. State - A state is a self-governing political entity. The term state can be used interchangeably with county.

What is an independent state? (I) Has space or territory which has internationally recognized boundaries (boundary disputes are okay) Has people who live there on an ongoing basis Has economic activity and an organized economy. A country regulates foreign trade and domestic trade and issues money. Has the power of social engineering, such as education.

What is an independent state? (II) Has a transportation system for moving goods or services. Has a government which provided public services and police power. Has sovereignty. No other state should have power over the country’s territory. Has external recognition. A country has been “voted into the club” by other countries.

Nation State Defined boarders and territories Same type of people exist Nation State Organized by race or background Generally speaks on language

Canada and United States From this strict definition it’s easy to see that Canada and the United States are not Nation-States Multiple ethnicities Numerous religious practices Different cultural norms

Canada and United States Even though citizens of Canada and the US share the same boarder and territory, they do not, in the sense of the nation-state, share a common nationality. (the United Nations recognizes Canada and the United States as “Nation States”)

Who is a Nation State? Most countries do not completely fall within the definition of the nation-state, since most countries have immigrants. Ideal Nation States Iceland Japan North Korea

Discussion Time Here are a list of questions that we are going to look at as a class. You are expected to give an answer. You will have about one minute to talk to the people beside you to come up with an answer. You never know, I might just pick you.

Question 1 Do all Canadians share a common identity? If so what is it?

Question 2 Given your understanding of the definition of a nation, should “Canadian” be considered a nationality?

Question 3 Canada could be considered to be founded by three separate nations. Who are they?

Question 4 Many Quebecois consider themselves a separate nation from Canada. Do you agree with this interpretation? What about First Nation people?

Question 5 In a multi-national state such as Canada, what are some of the biggest hurdles that our government must overcome to accommodate all of its citizens?

Question 6 Why can it be contested that multi-national states always lead to tyranny of the majority?

Question 7 Can you think of any historical/contemporary examples of a multi-national state that has led to civil war?

The Assignment You will be needing the internet to help you with this assignment. On it, you will be looking at countries that have recently been designated status of an independent nation.