How Has The Canadian Pacific Railway Affected Canada's History?

History is the study of events that have occurred in the past. It is also the series of events which comes from various aspects, such as people, places, and objects. More so, it is highly significant to be aware of the past occurrences as it deeply influences the future. One of Canada’s triumph and legacy is the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. It fulfilled Canada’s First Prime Minister, Sir John A MacDonald’s national dream. This transcontinental railway connected the vast areas of Canada and enabled easier access within provinces. Ultimately, it made an enormous impact in Canada’s history, and without it, Canada would not have developed into the nation it is today. In this case, it created a huge impact on Canada’s development

The reason for this is because the success of the Canadian Pacific Railway fulfilled Sir John A. MacDonald’s commitment to British Columbia that a railway system will be built within ten years. This became the foundation of a growing nation. Innis states that “The nationalistic dangers of Western expansion contributed to the force of this factor and there followed Intercolonial, Confederation and the admission of British Columbia to the Dominion” (Innis 73). This passage indicates how the province of British Columbia is vulnerable to annexation or invasion to the United States. The success of the Canadian Pacific Railway not only assured that another province would join the growing nation, but it also fulfilled Sir John A. MacDonald’s dream of uniting all British colonies to create a country that would rival the United

Innis affirms that “The contract for the construction of the road was an index of the growth of civilization in Canada” (Innis 97). In other words, the Canadian Pacific Railway initiated growth of civilization and was the beginning of expansion and progress in the society. A progressive society is essential as it helps to create a stable society, both financially and socially. The construction of the national railway initiated economic and social developments. It enabled provinces to have access to each other’s resources more efficiently. Furthermore, small towns and cities prospered as many businesses took off, which in turn, increased their standard of living. Innis narrates “The marked prosperity of Canada, especially from 1896 to 1913, paralleled the prosperity, the expansion, and the integration of the Canadian Pacific Railway during that period” (Innis 292). This passage explains how the sudden boost in the economy of Canada occurred at the same time as the expansion of the railway system. The Canadian Pacific Railway not only improved the quality of life and standard of living of many Canadians, but it also aided in times of crisis. During that time, the province of British Columbia was in favor of the building of the railway, as they were experiencing a severe economic downturn because of the decline of the gold rush. With their province’s involvement in the newly built infrastructure, it would help