Tim Horton, a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, was involved in a fatal car accident one night, while driving along the Queen Elizabeth Way. Embodying traits such as “humble in origins, large in talent, strong in body, and gentle in demeanor”, Tim Horton was considered the ideal Canadian (). Tim Horton is not widely remembered for his time playing in the National Hockey League, however. Instead, he is remembered for his donut franchise. As of when this chapter was written, there were almost two thousand Tim Horton’s around the world bringing in over one billion dollars in revenue a year. However, due to the wide visibility of these restaurants, most consumers have forgotten that Tim Horton was once a real person (). However, the connection of the hockey player and donut franchise has created new expressions of Canadian patriotism. Donuts are so widely produced and consumed in Canada, that many have proclaimed them to be the “unofficial national food” (). Even though donuts were not invented in Canada, they have been engrained in their culture. People were drawn to these outlets when they first opened, as it provided an opportunity to meet their legend. However, patrons had enjoyed …show more content…
This relationship sparks an image that can be related to across Canada, therefore making it a part of Canadian identity. Living next to America who prides itself in displaying its patriotism, Canada sometimes gets lost in the noise. Canadians also create a relationship between donuts and crossing the border. When relatives visit, Canadians who are traveling will ask for a box of donuts from Tim Hortons. Even when bought by Wendy’s, the link between Tim Hortons and national identity was not broken. To keep up with the times, Tim Hortons is trying to move away from donuts and bring a new demographic through updated interiors and “healthier” menus