The Development of Canadian Identity Through Conflict and Crisis. Canada has long been a country profoundly changed by the thrilling mixture of various social, economic, political, and geographical factors. These developments are greatly prominent during events that vastly altered the nation, examples include the First World War and the Great Depression. Each of these periods shaped and moulded Canada's national identity, political autonomy, economic policies, and social values and eventually established where it stood in place in the modern world. How did these two decisive moments in Canadian history shape the nation's identity shift and its role on the international scene - this essay shall examine? The First World War The First World …show more content…
**Impact on Social Identity:** The war thus turned out to be a crucible where Canadian national identity was forged. The leading role that the Canadian forces played in some major battles is considered an important part of emerging national pride and distinctiveness. In this regard, special mention must be made of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917. This victory, as Canadian soldiers were able to take Vimy Ridge-which other allied forces had not been able to do-further perpetuated the notion that this was foundational in displaying Canada's emergence from under Britain's thumb to become its own country. National pride did not just stop with the military but continued onto the entire citizenry of Canada, thus creating a unity of purpose in terms of regional and cultural …show more content…
The unprecedented economic breakdown brought about salient government reforms, propounded to stabilize the economy and grant some socio-economic security. One of the most fundamental developments includes the founding of the Bank of Canada in 1935; such an institution played a very vital role in steering the national economy and bringing forth much-sought financial stability. The economic crisis also led to the creation of social welfare programs such as unemployment insurance, as well as public works to alleviate the worst impacts of the depression. These also ushered in a more interventionist style of government concerning social involvement. These are, in a manner of speaking, hallmark features of the drives undertaken by the Canadian economy even