A Note On The Battle Of Vimy Ridge

Describe the Battle of Vimy Ridge and outline the unique aspects of it. What is its significance to Canada's identity?

“Nations are made by doing great things together.” (-Renan) The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a huge win to the Canadian troops who fought their way to victory under the leadership of General Arthur Currie. Located in France near the Belgian border was the strategically important highground of Vimy Ridge. In April of 1917, Canada defeated the Germans who had occupied the area since their first offensive in 1914. Canada's victory at Vimy Ridge not only outlined the unique aspect of their win, but created the foundation for Canada's autonomy internationally.

“They said it couldn't be done and we did it.” (-Historian, Pierre

By 1918, the self-governing colony that had trusted its fate to British statecraft was not only committed to speaking with its own voice in the world, it had won on the battlefield the right to be heard.” (-Morton & Granatstein, 1989, p.1.) After the Battle of Vimy Ridge, Canada was viewed as an entirely different nation. Consequently, Canada was no longer just in the shadow of Britain, and it was emerging into a country with an independent identity. A primary example of this, was when the Canadian prime minister, Robert Borden, was allowed to sign the Treaty of Versailles which formally ended World War One. Furthermore, A New York Tribune editorial stated, “every American will feel a thrill of admiration and a touch of honest envy at the achievements of the Canadian troops.” This highlighted that they were being recognised, as Canadians, for their formidable military achievements. Some might argue that the Canadian troops had other battles that were more important in the face of the war, but what they don't take into account is that success starts somewhere and for Canada, Vimy Ridge was the turning point. For this reason, The Battle of Vimy Ridge became a symbol of Canada’s independence and