The Controversies of Confederation
The Challenge of Diversity
Canada is a country that stretches from sea to sea to sea, encompassing a hugely varied population of cultures, beliefs and histories. Confederation united all Canadians under one nation but did not mean that everyone immediately got along. Today, the question of language, rights and land still plagues the lawmakers.
The Forum of Federations produced videos showing how five countries are dealing with their diversities.
Flag image: http://images.ctv.ca/archives/CTVNews/img2/20060629/465_mosaic_canada2006B.jpg
The Forum of Federations produced videos showing how five countries are dealing with their diversities.
Flag image: http://images.ctv.ca/archives/CTVNews/img2/20060629/465_mosaic_canada2006B.jpg
French - English Relations
The French and the English lay claim to Canada (overlooking the rights of the First Nations) in the early age of European exploration and the tension between the groups has shaped much of Canadian culture and modern history. From the Hundred Years' war to the Quebec Referendum, Colleen Wray's lesson plan sparks discussion and debate as students take a closer look at the intricacies of this tumultuous relationship.
Flag image: http://thenonconformer.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/1-canada-quebec-flag.jpg
Flag image: http://thenonconformer.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/1-canada-quebec-flag.jpg
Federal - Provincial Jurisdiction
One of the greatest challenges in establishing Confederation was the distribution of the federal and provincial powers of government. Canadian provinces hold a huge amount of autonomy over their health care, education and language rights within their borders.
The Library and Archives of Canada has established an excellent resource site around the topic "What is the Canadian State?" It contains links to numerous activities, primary documents, artifacts and extension research to help students discover the ins and outs of the political system and the balance between the national and regional governments.
Map image: http://www.hechicero.ch/fotogalerie/maps/canada.jpg