Theme 1: Review


This theme focused on learning about nationalism and how it can be expressed. You learned about terms that define our nation and the people who live here.

This theme also focused on developing an understanding of, and appreciation for, the cultures of Canada's Indigenous peoples. You examined the strong, well-organized Indigenous cultures that existed in Canada before the arrival of European explorers, traders, and settlers. You also learned that Indigenous cultures were based on very strong connections to elders and spirituality.

The arrival of Europeans set in motion changes that impacted the traditional ways of life of Indigenous peoples. Although not necessarily intentional, much of this impact was devastating to the traditional ways of life for these societies.

Today, Indigenous people continue to work towards healing the wounds of the past and re-establishing pride in their cultures. Leaders use a combination of traditional and newer practices in governing themselves. Some traditional Indigenous items and practices have, in fact, become a part of Canadian identity. As well, Indigenous peoples continue to embrace their collective identities and include many cultural practices in their lives.



In Theme 1, you:


  • learned what nationalism is
  • learned how nationalism can be expressed
  • learned about factors that affect nationalism
  • learned what a nation, state, and nation-state are
  • learned about the relationships between nation, state, and nation-state
  • learned about the collective identities in Canada
  • learned about national identity
  • learned about the way of life of Indigenous peoples before the arrival of Europeans
  • learned about the importance of elders and spirituality to Indigenous peoples
  • learned about the specific systems Indigenous peoples had in place to govern themselves and make decisions
  • learned about the changes in Canada's Indigenous peoples' ways of life after the arrival of Europeans
  • learned how these changes occurred
  • learned about the impact of the missionaries
  • learned about the effects of the treaties
  • learned how Indigenous peoples use both modern and traditional ideas to govern themselves
  • examined how this system of self-government works
  • gained an appreciation for some historical symbols important to Indigenous peoples and the contributions Indigneous peoples have made to Canadian identity
  • appreciated why a group of people seek to promote their identity through nationalism


Now go to the next two pages to show what you've learned!