Course Goal
The goal of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Canadian history between 1914 and present day. Students will develop their critical thinking and analytical skills while learning about key events, people, and policies that have shaped Canada's history.
Aims
- To examine the political, social, and economic changes that have occurred in Canada between 1914 and present day.
- To explore the impact of these changes on Canadian society and its people.
- To develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the examination of primary and secondary sources.
- To foster an appreciation of Canada's diverse cultural heritage and its contributions to the global community.
Week 1-2: Introduction and World War I
- Overview of the course and Canadian history
- Causes of World War I and Canada's involvement
- The war's economic, social, and political impact on Canada
- Treaty of Versailles and Canada's role in shaping it
Week 3-4: The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression
- The transformation of Canadian society and culture during the 1920s
- The stock market crash of 1929 and the onset of the Great Depression
- The impact of the Depression on Canadian society and politics
- The government's response to the economic crisis
Week 5-6: World War II
- The outbreak of World War II and Canada's involvement
- The war's economic, social, and political impact on Canada
- Analysis of key battles and decisions made by Canadian leaders
- Canada's contribution to the Allied victory and its aftermath
Week 7-8: Cold War and Canadian Identity
- The onset of the Cold War and Canada's role within it
- Impact of the Cold War on Canadian society
- Analysis of key decisions made by Canadian leaders during the period
- Reflections on Canadian identity in the post-war world
Week 9-10: Canada in the 1960s
- Overview of key events and social movements of the 1960s
- Exploration of the Quiet Revolution in Québec
- Analysis of Lester B. Pearson's tenure as Prime Minister
- Canada's role in the international community during the period
Week 11-12: The 1970s and 1980s
- Impact of the energy crisis on Canada
- Exploration of multiculturalism and its impact on Canadian society
- Analysis of key political decisions, including the repatriation of the Constitution
- Reflections on Canada's role in a changing global context
Week 13-14: Canada in the 1990s
- Overview of key events and issues, including the Meech Lake Accord
- The changing Canadian economy and the globalization of industry
- Analysis of key political decisions, including the signing of NAFTA
- Reflections on Canada's place in a more interconnected world
Week 15-16: The 21st Century
- Overview of key events, issues, and challenges of the 21st century
- Exploration of regionalism and questions of national unity
- Analysis of Canada's role in international affairs
- Reflections on the future of Canadian society and politics
Week 17-18: Review and Exam Preparation
- Overview of key themes and topics covered in the course
- Review of major events, people, and policies
- Practice exam questions and study tips
Week 19: Final Exam
- Comprehensive exam covering all material covered in the course
Weeks 20-21: Reflection and Feedback
- Opportunity for students to reflect on their learning and provide feedback on the course
- Final thoughts on the relevance of Canadian history to contemporary society
Conclusion
This course aims to provide students with a deeper appreciation and understanding of how Canada has evolved over the last century. Through the study of key events, people, and policies, students will develop the skills to analyze and think critically about Canada's history and its place in the world.