Course Introduction

To define what it means to be Canadian is virtually impossible.  This video attempts to touch on the multiple perspectives Canadian identity.

Upon watching the Perspectives on Nationalism video and reading the following course objectives, please proceed to the Assignment section of this lesson.

Nationalism is the collective, shared sense of belonging of people who identify themselves as a nation. Nationalism can be a belief in nation, a shared sense of kinship or belonging, or a shared consciousness of a collective identity. In Social Studies 20 students will explore the complexities of nationalism in Canadian and international contexts. They will study the origins of nationalism and influence of nationalism on regional, international and global relations. Exploring the complexities of nationalism will contribute to an understanding and appreciation of the interrelationships among nation, nationalism, internationalism, globalization, and citizenship and identity. The organization of Social Studies 20 will involve examining the following four broad units:

Unit 1- Nationalism and Identity: In this unit students will explore the relationships among identity, nation and nationalism. They will analyze how the development of nationalism is shaped by historical, geographic, political, economic and social factors.

Unit 2- The Pursuit of National Interest: In this unit students will assess the impacts of nationalism, ultranationalism and the pursuit of national interest. They will analyze how the pursuit of national interest shapes foreign policy. Additionally, they will analyze the relationship between nationalism as well as ultranationalism, especially during times of conflict.

Unit 3- Internationalism and Contemporary Global Affairs: In this unit students will assess impacts of the pursuit of internationalism in contemporary global affairs. Students will analyze the motives of nation and state involvement or non-involvement in international affairs. Also, students will analyze the impacts of the pursuit of internationalism in addressing contemporary global issues.

Unit 4- Canadian National Identity: In this unit students will assess strategies for negotiating the complexities of nationalism within the Canadian context. Students will explore multiple perspectives on national identity in Canada, and evaluate the challenges and opportunities associated with the promotion of Canadian national unity.

Textbook: “Exploring Nationalism” (each chapter is linked directly into its corresponding lesson)