Challenges to Canadian Unity
Canada went through many trials and ordeals to emerge as an united nation. These are some of the dates that were important in either threatening that unity or helping achieve it.
Maurice Duplessis and the Great Darkness (1944-1959)
Maurice Duplessis was the 16th Premier of Quebec. His term in office was known as ‘The Great Darkness’. Policies under Duplessis favoured rural communities as opposed to cities and caused budget cuts to social programs. Several labour strikes took place during his term in office. Duplessis responded by acting swiftly and with force. His government was also known for corruption. After his death, Quebec experienced a ‘Quiet Revolution’ and moved towards better social welfare and became more secular.
Ban of the Potlatch repealed (1951)
The Potlatch is a First Nations event where a family or leader invites other people to a gathering. Gifts and goods are distributed during a Potlatch. Singing, dancing and competitions are also common. The Potlatch was banned in 1885; however, it was rarely enforced. The ban was repealed in 1951. By that time, tribal identities had been damaged and social division occurred. Potlatches still happen, but aren’t the great events they were before.
Aboriginals gain voting rights (1960)
Prior to 1960, First Nations people could only vote if they gave up their First Nations status. However, a law passed in 1960 gave First Nations people the right to vote and brought First Nations people closer together with the rest of Canada.
Jean Lesage and the Quiet Revolution (1960)
Following the Great Darkness, Jean Lesage became Premier of Quebec. Quebec experienced social change in a period known as the ‘Quiet Revolution.’ Lesage’s slogan was ‘Maitres chez nous’, which meant ‘Masters in our own house.’ This led to tension between Quebec and the rest of Canada as Quebec tried to reach independency from Canada. This period was also marked with great economic growth.
Bilingualism and Biculturalism Commission formed (1963)
The Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism was created to look into the state of relations between Quebec and the rest of the Canada. The commission’s recommendation was that Ontario and New Brunswick become bilingual and French be declared an official language of Canada. These helped to reduce tensions with Quebec and ensured that French Canadians felt included as a part of Canada.
Canada’s New Flag unveiled (1965)
The new flag of Canada established in 1965 brought all Canadians together, regardless of race or religion. This flag was free of any affiliation with England that French Canadians disapproved of.
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