Lesson 13 — Activity 2: World War I Strengthened Canada
Lesson 13 — Activity 2: World War I Strengthened Canada
Warm Up
Although the conscription issue split people within Canada into two groups, World War I was very influential in the shaping of Canada as a nation.
In this activity, you will learn how Canada was strengthened.
What Others Have Said...
"Canada entered World War I as a colony and came out a nation..." quote from Canadian journalist Bruce Hutchison.
First World War — Canada
Population Served Died Wounded
7,800,000 625,825 61,082 154,361
Of almost 626,000 Canadians who went to war, over a third (215,500) were either killed (61,000) or wounded (154,000). These numbers reflect the amazing contributions and sacrifices that Canadians made.
Canadian servicemen earned recognition, respect, and admiration from the rest of the world through their successful and dedicated participation in World War I. After several key battles, governments in other countries began to refer to our troops as the "Canadians."
When Canadian forces began fighting in World War I, they were under a
British commander. As a result of Canada's sacrifices and effort, by
the end of the war, they were placed under a Canadian commander.
Fighting as a Canadian corps rather than as part of the British forces
was a big step. Our troops considered themselves Canadians. For the
first time in history, people were proud to call themselves Canadians.
Many Canadian lives were lost during the war, but Canada grew stronger as a nation and moved closer to being fully independent.
There is no doubt that a distinct and lasting Canadian identity was forged on the battlefields of Europe during World War I.