1. Canada & WWII
A New Province

2. What was the new province?
Newfoundland!
Up until this, they had still been under British rule.
Newfoundland’s economy had suffered greatly during The Great Depression; they had become bankrupt.
In 1934, they had lost their self-governing status, which they had had since 1907.

3. The Economy Improves
Although the British government stepped in, NFLD’s economy continued to suffer, with many people dependent on relief.
The economy improved during the Second World War. Military bases were set up here because of its strategic location.

4. Results of Military Bases
Their construction created jobs.
A demand for goods and services from those who lived on them.
Thousands of Newfoundlanders joined Canada’s armed forces, merchant marine and NFLD’s own small military force.

5. After WWII
Britain had to decide what to do with all of its colonies: they were becoming too expensive to maintain.

6. Newfoundland’s Choices
Join Canada: some believed this was they best way to maintain prosperity after the war.
Responsible Government: they would be self-governing, and continue their close ties with Canada.
Continue with the commission government, which was quite unpopular.

7. The Referendum of 1948
52.3% of Newfoundlanders voted to join Canada; 47.7% voted for responsible government.
March 31, 1949 NFLD official joins Canada.
December 2001 NFLD becomes Newfoundland and Labrador.