How Did Regionalism Contribute To The Rapid Growth Of Canada

Canada experienced rapid growth and development during the period from 1864 to 1939. With humble beginnings as a cluster of small British colonies, Canada eventually emerged as a strong, developed nation. However, this evolution from colony to nation did not happen instantaneously. Rather, it occurred due to a series of challenges and changes influenced by a myriad of major dynamic forces. In particular, the dynamic forces of protectionism, expansionism, and regionalism contributed greatly to the early makings of Canadian nationhood. In 1864, the colonies of British North America (BNA) were still very much under the control of Great Britain. However, changing sentiments amongst the various colonial governments led to talk of uniting into

The federal government worked hard at promoting Western Canadian settlement, the third plank of Macdonald’s National Policy, across Europe and the United States. They specifically encouraged farming in the West, as they believed that the growing populations in the region could provide a captive market for the manufactured goods being produced in Eastern Canada. The drive to expand Canada was so strong that the government even introduced The Dominion Lands Act in 1872. This act provided free quarter sections of land to farmers willing to settle in this West. This policy was essential to the development of Canada, as it eventually induced mass immigration to the West and helped lay the groundwork for the creation of the provinces of Alberta and

In the period following Confederation, Canada industrial and manufacturing sectors grew at a rapid pace. Although industrial production still only accounted for about a quarter of Canada’s economic output in the early 20th century, this growth in industrial activity was still significant for the Canadian economy. This industrial growth led to increased investment in Canadian companies, innovations, and technology. With the influx of new capital into the Canadian economy, many new businesses opened, and many new jobs were created. This continued growth and investment in the Canadian economy also resulted in a shift in the composition of the population. During this period of industrialization, Canada began to shift from an agrarian country, to an urban one. The job opportunities, facilitated by the rapid industrialization, began to pull more people into cities. Accordingly, industrialization during this period also fueled rapid urban expansion. As much of this industrial grow was concentrated in the East, with the population of major centres like Toronto and Montreal growing at exponential rates during this period. These enhanced urban markets induced further economic development, as cities soon became home to large department stores, electricity, and leisure and recreation facilities. Although rural depopulation became a serious issue during this period of rapid