3.4.1 Redressing the Wrongs Overview
Completion requirements
3.4.1 Responding to the Legacies of Imperialism
How should contemporary society respond to the legacies of historical globalization?
How should Canadians respond to the legacies of historical globalization?
Both positive and negative results are evident from historical imperialism. The Canada we know was created by historical imperialism. Most Canadians celebrate the diversity, political stability, and economic well-being that resulted from the merging of many cultures and ideas. This blend of beliefs and strengths has created a great nation.
On the other hand, we cannot deny that many injustices occurred during this period of history, especially to Indigenous people. As a result, cultures have been marginalized, individuals have been mistreated, and many have suffered. This legacy continues with us to the present.
How should we respond to this legacy? Should we say "What's past is past, and there is nothing we can do about it," or should we, as a nation, try to make up for the actions of the past so all might move forward? The decision is ours.
The Canadian government and governments around the world have responded by taking various actions to improve the lives of their citizens. As citizens in a democracy, we direct our government to act. In addition, we can take personal actions such as furthering our understanding of the issues and treating marginalized people with understanding and respect.
Both positive and negative results are evident from historical imperialism. The Canada we know was created by historical imperialism. Most Canadians celebrate the diversity, political stability, and economic well-being that resulted from the merging of many cultures and ideas. This blend of beliefs and strengths has created a great nation.
On the other hand, we cannot deny that many injustices occurred during this period of history, especially to Indigenous people. As a result, cultures have been marginalized, individuals have been mistreated, and many have suffered. This legacy continues with us to the present.
How should we respond to this legacy? Should we say "What's past is past, and there is nothing we can do about it," or should we, as a nation, try to make up for the actions of the past so all might move forward? The decision is ours.
The Canadian government and governments around the world have responded by taking various actions to improve the lives of their citizens. As citizens in a democracy, we direct our government to act. In addition, we can take personal actions such as furthering our understanding of the issues and treating marginalized people with understanding and respect.

We can consider this issue with both our hearts and our minds.
- Compassion: If we care about our fellow Canadians, we might consider taking actions to make their lives better.
- Practical Reasons: Does a nation benefit from having a large group of disadvantaged citizens? People who been mistreated and have lost their way are unable to contribute to their own well-being or that of the nation. By individuals helping to make things right, all may benefit.