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Canada and World War One
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Canada Enters World War One (Political)
Once Great Britain entered the war, Canada as a part of the British Empire was drawn into the conflict as well. Canada did not decide to enter as a sovereign nation, but were simply part of the British Army. Since it was not a decision made by the government of Canada - 0. -
War Measures Act (Political/Cultural)
The War Measures Act gave new powers to the government after the outbreak of war. Although some new powers may have been necessary, it was also used to imprison people who were seen as an "enemy aliens" and enemy sympathizers without a trial and lead to internment camps in Canada. -1 -
First Nation Soldiers - Cultural
Between 1914-1918, approximately 4,000 First Nations men enlisted in the army and 50 soldiers were decorated for bravery, including Francis Pegahmagabow. He was a highly respected soldier and later fought for Aboriginal rights upon his return to Canada. Although they suffered casualties in war, First Nations became well-known and respected in the army for their courage and bravery. +1 -
Women's Rights (Cultural/Social)
Between 1914-1918, women were needed to join the workforce where they contributed to the war effort by working on the farms to provide food and in factories that made products needed for war. They also went overseas and worked as nurses on boats and on land, as ambulance drivers and as volunteers. This helped to change the way were women viewed (feminine, domestic stereotype) and caused an advancement in women rights. Six of the ten Provinces gave women the right to vote between 1914-1918. +2 -
The Second Battle of Ypres (Political)
This battle was fought in April and May of 1915. The Germans used chlorine gas against the Canadian soldiers in the battle. In one particular fierce battle, more than 2000 Canadian soldiers died in 48 hours of fighting. This battle showed the world, especially the people back home in Canada, of the true cruelty and horror of war. -2 -
Prohibition (Cultural/Economics)
Prohibition was a law banning alcohol in each of the Provinces. Enacted (in some Provinces, at different times) as part of the War Measures Act, it was meant to help in the war effort. However, it led to illegal drinking establishments, an increase in organized crime and increased drug use. It was mostly seen as failure, causing more harm than good, and was quickly repealed in most Provinces by 1919. -1 -
Letter from Lieutenant Col. Allison Borden (Social/Political)
Lieutenant Borden wrote a letter to encourage more men to volunteer, but he addressed the letter to students in the Nova Scotia schools, so that the students would pressure their fathers and older brothers to enlist. More volunteers were needed, but perhaps there was a better way than using children in his recruitment, and playing on their fear and anxiety. 0 -
Battle of Vimy Ridge (Cultural)
Vimy Ridge was a battle fought in 1917. It was one of the most successful assaults in the war and was led by Canadian forces. It is said that Vimy Ridge showed the world that the Canadian army was an elite force and the victory was a sense of pride for Canada and the Canadian forces. Although Canada lost many soldiers, it was seen as an important step for the nation of Canada. The Vimy Ridge Memorial now marks the spot of the battle. +1 -
Income Taxes (Economics)
Introduced in 1917, income taxes caused Canadians to pay between 2-25% based on their income. The war effort was draining Canada's economy and income tax was seen as a way to raise funds. England and the United States already had income tax and the Canadian government it would only be temporary, however it has lasted 100 years. -1 -
Conscription (Political/Cultural)
Introduced in 1917 by the Conservative party and Prime Minster Borden. This called for all men in Canada between the ages of 20-45 to serve in the Canadian Army. This proved to be very divisive. Former members of the British Empire, English speaking Canadians, supported this idea. People who were not, especially French speaking Canadians, did not support conscription as they believed it was not their battle to fight. It brought many of the differences between these two groups to a head. -1
