Universal healthcare. An idea which seems essential in ensuring fair and proper healthcare across the country, but when it was first introduced, it was treated like a death sentence. It all started when a man known as Tommy Douglas saw the plight of his fellow Canadians, and the need of basic healthcare for everyone. He was a true Canadian, sharing the ideals we all favor, and accomplishing achievements most people would've expected to see after several generations.
Many countries have adopted Canada's policy on Universal Healthcare, whereas many other countries such as the U.S. have only recently started the uphill fight to get it. It truly is a blessing for many, and for many others a lifesaver (literally). In it's simplest form, it really is quite a beautiful concept. Everyone gets the right to have access to free medical care, regardless of their race, sex, or financial situation. No doubt thousands of lives have probably been saved because of it, and millions more benefited from it. By combining forces, so that everyone pitches in a little, we can ensure that no one is forced to chose between getting surgery, or receiving an education. Behind the Universal Health Care plan lies the blood sweat and tears of those who fought for it, namely Tommy Douglas. It was a fight like none other, putting the MMA to shame. Canada has been the arrowhead for the international community, spearheading projects, concepts, and humane ideas first-hand. We don't mind spreading the benefits of out ideas, in fact we try encouraging other countries to become a more ideal place to live in.
As a Canadian, I am very proud of this accomplishment, and I feel the world in general can benefit from our ideas. I firmly beleive that sharing is indeed caring, and that one good idea deserves another. Universal healthcare has been with me ever since I was born, so I really don't know how life would be like without it. My parents on the other hand are always amazed by the simplistic, yet greatly beneficial qualities of such a concept, and deep down must always thank Tommy Douglas before entering a hospital, or a doctor's clinic. Canadians must never lose sight of our roots, and must have a good grip on the ideals and beliefs our forefathers fostered in this land. There will always be some conflict, but by pitching in as one, we can ensure that there will be plenty to reap for everyone.
Thursday, 16 June 2011
Basketball ~ More than just a Sport
Despite the currently American dominated industry of basketball, its roots lie in Canada. James Naismith, born in Almonte Ontario, was a physical education teacher for the YMCA. He was faced with a troubling problem, which lay in the lack of sports in autumn. Every other season had its sport, which his students could play, however when it came to fall, they were left stumped. He started out by zooming in on the key components such as developing hand-eye coordination, strength, and agility. In its primitive state, instead of using a mesh connected with a pole, they used a peach basket, thus the name 'basketball.' The game developed rapidly, as it went from moving a soccer ball and shooting it into a closed peach basket, into developing its own unique ball and dribbling it down a court to shoot into an open-mesh basket. The sport spread slowly, as it wasn't a spectator-friendly sport. Players would use cheap tactics such as holding on the ball too long, and taking forever to shoot the ball. After many amendments and adding new rules, it finally grew into a high-paced and action-packed sport. Things such as introducing the 24 second shot clock, and forcing players to dribble with one hand all contributed into the popularity of the sport, until finally teams from across the country started sprouting up. It wasn't until 1935, when basketball was inducted into an Olympic sport was Naismith finally able to see the fruits of his labor. He handed the bronze, silver, and gold medals in the 1936 summer Olympics. James Naismith was a true Canadian, and because of his hard work and passion into uniting people through the love of sport.
Insulin~ The lifesaving discovery
Today, diabetes is a disease which is easily cured by a very handy material known as Insulin. However, how exactly did this material come to be discovered? It all happened because of a man known as Dr. Frederick Banting, who after reading an article on the pancreas decided to discover a method to cure diabetes.
It was well known that diabetes was linked with the pancreas, as it served two main purposes: produce digestive juices, and produce another mysterious substance which helped control blood sugar levels. However, what wasn't known was what exactly this material was, and how to extract it. Dr. Frederick Banting theorized that by shrinking the pancreas, it would be possible to harvest the substance without damaging the pancreas itself. Thus the experimenting began. Dr. Frederick Banting was granted a humble lab, with ten test dogs. Charles Best was a medical student, and decided to assist Dr. Banting with his pursuit to solve the puzzle. Firstly, Dr. Frederick Banting removed the pancreas from one of the dogs, and observed what would happen. It showed signs of extreme thirst, frequent urination, and high blood sugar levels. It had developed diabetes. They then took another dog, and then surgically ligated the pancreas while it was still in the body. After some time, they took the pancreas out and preserved it with salt and ice. The ground-up and filtered juices of it were inserted into the first dog, which immediately showed signs of improvement. They took their studies to their peers, who were equally amazed. A more advanced facility, more funding, and more help were offered to Dr. Frederick Banting, who took their experimenting to cattle, and finally to humans. Finally it seemed, the cure was here. Insulin was born.
Dr. Frederick Banting was given the Nobel Prize in 1923, but decided to share the glory and prize money with his assistant Best. It shouldn't be overlooked that instead of retiring to a life of luxury and wealth by patenting his discovery, Dr. Banting decided that whoever needed insulin, could have it. He wasn't interested in making a profit from his discovery, rather he wanted to help as many people as he could. That selflessness and will to persevere through tough times is what gives us Canadians our fame, and yet another moment in history we can reflect upon.
It was well known that diabetes was linked with the pancreas, as it served two main purposes: produce digestive juices, and produce another mysterious substance which helped control blood sugar levels. However, what wasn't known was what exactly this material was, and how to extract it. Dr. Frederick Banting theorized that by shrinking the pancreas, it would be possible to harvest the substance without damaging the pancreas itself. Thus the experimenting began. Dr. Frederick Banting was granted a humble lab, with ten test dogs. Charles Best was a medical student, and decided to assist Dr. Banting with his pursuit to solve the puzzle. Firstly, Dr. Frederick Banting removed the pancreas from one of the dogs, and observed what would happen. It showed signs of extreme thirst, frequent urination, and high blood sugar levels. It had developed diabetes. They then took another dog, and then surgically ligated the pancreas while it was still in the body. After some time, they took the pancreas out and preserved it with salt and ice. The ground-up and filtered juices of it were inserted into the first dog, which immediately showed signs of improvement. They took their studies to their peers, who were equally amazed. A more advanced facility, more funding, and more help were offered to Dr. Frederick Banting, who took their experimenting to cattle, and finally to humans. Finally it seemed, the cure was here. Insulin was born.
Dr. Frederick Banting was given the Nobel Prize in 1923, but decided to share the glory and prize money with his assistant Best. It shouldn't be overlooked that instead of retiring to a life of luxury and wealth by patenting his discovery, Dr. Banting decided that whoever needed insulin, could have it. He wasn't interested in making a profit from his discovery, rather he wanted to help as many people as he could. That selflessness and will to persevere through tough times is what gives us Canadians our fame, and yet another moment in history we can reflect upon.
Imperialism vs Nationalism ~ Patriotism Emerges
During the dawn of the 20th century, Canada was faced with not only an emerging economy, but with new emerging ideals and viewpoints. It was during the 'Laurier Boom,' where the economy and industries saw great growth, when people started disputing and arguing over the future of this great country.As they saw, arguing sometimes creates a stronger bond between people, and that's exactly what happened.
The Boer War
It was 1899, and in the interest of seizing the great diamond and gold mines of South Africa, the British Empire raged war with the Boers, descendants of dutch colonists in Africa. The British supposedly were trying to ensure equal rights for British subjects in Africa, but the international community saw it for what it was, and heavily criticized them. Britain called on its colonies for support, and the English-Canadians felt that it was crucial for Canada to back them up. The French on the other hand, weren't so keen, and sympathized with the Boers. Amid the Controversy, Wilfred Laurier decided to compromise, and sent volunteer citizens to Africa to join the battle, and those who didn't want to join didn't have to.
Result
Laurier's decision to compromise really annoyed French-Canadians, as they heavily criticized the government's indecisiveness. The French wanted Canada to become more independent, and be in charge of its own international policy. The English wanted to preserve ties with Britain, as many were still connected via their business and had their family there as well. Thus the controversy around imperialism and nationalism was aroused. The ultimate debate had Canadians divided.
The Naval Issue
This controversy, in a nut shell, dealt with two possible paths for Canada to take in terms of defending its coasts. Do we develop our own navy and defend ourselves, or do we pool in resources, and allow Britain to defend us. As usual, the divide lay between the French and the English. The English felt confident in Britain's empire and its infamous navy, and wanted Canada to back them up in times of distress. With the threat of a world war looming, Britain had its hands full as it tried developing the best ships before Germany.
Result
In 1910, Laurier introduced the Naval Service Act, in which Canada would develop a navy, which it would then hand over to Britain in times of need. This angered both sides, as the French felt it should sever ties with Britain, and the English laughing at the incompetent Canadian ships compared to the new 'Dreadnoughts,' top of the class warships. Once again, the issue further divided Canadians.
The Alaska Boundary Dispute
For once Canadians could agree to something, and that was over the disputed territory in North West Canada. As gold started making its discovery known to the North, Canada and U.S.A all had different claims over the 'Alaska Panhandle,' a territory which made up the northern half of B.C.'s coast. In a bid to settle the issue, both countries decided to settle it by utilizing an international tribunal, which was a panel of judges chosen from three different countries. There were three representatives for the U.S., two for Canada, and seeing how it still had influence over Canada, a representative on behalf of Britain. Britain was having its own share of territory disputes with the U.S., and didn't want to anger them. They decided to side with the U.S., leading in a 4-2 loss for Canada.
Result
Canadians were furious over the decision, and felt that Britain had 'back-stabbed' them. Protests for complete independence raged across the country, and feelings for nationalism soared. Canada was united as a country, and even though we lost the dispute over the 'Alaska Panhandle,' we won a greater battle, that in uniting Canada, and giving Canadians and identity and a culture.
The Boer War
It was 1899, and in the interest of seizing the great diamond and gold mines of South Africa, the British Empire raged war with the Boers, descendants of dutch colonists in Africa. The British supposedly were trying to ensure equal rights for British subjects in Africa, but the international community saw it for what it was, and heavily criticized them. Britain called on its colonies for support, and the English-Canadians felt that it was crucial for Canada to back them up. The French on the other hand, weren't so keen, and sympathized with the Boers. Amid the Controversy, Wilfred Laurier decided to compromise, and sent volunteer citizens to Africa to join the battle, and those who didn't want to join didn't have to.
Result
Laurier's decision to compromise really annoyed French-Canadians, as they heavily criticized the government's indecisiveness. The French wanted Canada to become more independent, and be in charge of its own international policy. The English wanted to preserve ties with Britain, as many were still connected via their business and had their family there as well. Thus the controversy around imperialism and nationalism was aroused. The ultimate debate had Canadians divided.
The Naval Issue
This controversy, in a nut shell, dealt with two possible paths for Canada to take in terms of defending its coasts. Do we develop our own navy and defend ourselves, or do we pool in resources, and allow Britain to defend us. As usual, the divide lay between the French and the English. The English felt confident in Britain's empire and its infamous navy, and wanted Canada to back them up in times of distress. With the threat of a world war looming, Britain had its hands full as it tried developing the best ships before Germany.
Result
In 1910, Laurier introduced the Naval Service Act, in which Canada would develop a navy, which it would then hand over to Britain in times of need. This angered both sides, as the French felt it should sever ties with Britain, and the English laughing at the incompetent Canadian ships compared to the new 'Dreadnoughts,' top of the class warships. Once again, the issue further divided Canadians.
The Alaska Boundary Dispute
For once Canadians could agree to something, and that was over the disputed territory in North West Canada. As gold started making its discovery known to the North, Canada and U.S.A all had different claims over the 'Alaska Panhandle,' a territory which made up the northern half of B.C.'s coast. In a bid to settle the issue, both countries decided to settle it by utilizing an international tribunal, which was a panel of judges chosen from three different countries. There were three representatives for the U.S., two for Canada, and seeing how it still had influence over Canada, a representative on behalf of Britain. Britain was having its own share of territory disputes with the U.S., and didn't want to anger them. They decided to side with the U.S., leading in a 4-2 loss for Canada.
Result
Canadians were furious over the decision, and felt that Britain had 'back-stabbed' them. Protests for complete independence raged across the country, and feelings for nationalism soared. Canada was united as a country, and even though we lost the dispute over the 'Alaska Panhandle,' we won a greater battle, that in uniting Canada, and giving Canadians and identity and a culture.
Tuesday, 14 June 2011
Red River Valley & The Battle of Seven Oars
ORIGIN
The Red River Rebellion was a very important event in Canadian history, as cultures clashed, companies fought, and heroes and villains emerged from both side. Despite its seemingly violent history, it originated from a seemingly selfless act. Thomas Douglas, who was he Fifth Earl of Selkirk, felt a genuine sense of sorrow and empathy, as poor tenant farmers were being evicted from their homes. Wool was very profitable, and so lands were enclosed so sheep could graze, and the poor farmers were forced to leave. Lord Selkirk, being the director of the HBC (Hudson Bay Company), sought to hit two birds with one stone, as with one fluid action, he would solve the food crisis of the HBC, and the needs of the now evicted farmers. He discovered that the soil in the Red River Valley was especially fertile, and the evicted farmers could farm the land and the HBC would also benefit with having a closer food source compared to England. So it was decided, the HBC gave Selkirk 300, 000 square kilometers of land for his ambitious project.
FAILURE
To the farmers dismay, the land they were promised was still wild, and had to be cleared of trees. Hard work and determination was of little significance, as the crops they had sown in the spring had failed. Sheltering in Fort Pembina, the settlers were met with greater success, it still wasn't enough to guarantee a stable food supply. Miles Macdonell, the leader of the expedition, feared that the future of the colony would be lost if they didn't act fast. Thus, despite being warned by Selkirk to stay clear of the NWC (North West Company) the 'Pemmican Proclamation' was issued.
RESISTANCE
The Pemmican Proclamation effectively banned the export of all pemmican in the Red River Valley, thus cutting off the Metis from a key source of income. The relied on their sales of pemmican to the NWC, the HBC's rival, and this proclamation infuriated them. They started their onslaught of harassment, burning the colonist's barns, trampling on their crops, and disturbing them in their sleep. Unable to tolerate this any further, the colonists left, only to return by the summer's end. Colin Robertson took command of the situation, and in the interests of both parties, declared peace. This peace would not last long, as both sides started preparing for what seemed like in inevitable war.
FIRST RAID
In May 1816, Cuthbert Grant led a small group of Metis to the Assinibione River, where they raided a brigade of HBC boats. They seized a hefty quantity of pemmican, as this action was viewed as a direct attack on the HBC's authority in the area. Grant would arrive at the colony in one month, this time with a team of better armed and trained soldiers, as war loomed over the horizon.
DISCRIMINATION
The Metis being of French and Native descent, were viewed as animals by the more 'sophisticated' and 'well-bred' English. They had been constantly discriminated against by the settlers, who felt that talks and negotiations with the Metis was a waste of time, as they couldn't understand civility. These thoughts propelled Grant to lead his team and attack the colony in an all-out war. Brute force was the only thing they could understand.
WAR
It lasted only 15 minutes, but those 15 minutes would carry an effect so large, it would be felt for many years to come. The Metis were far better armed and disciplined than the settlers, who despite their superior weapons, soon fell quickly. Thanks to a pincer type of attack, Semple and 20 of his men were soon killed, compared to only one Metis. The colonists retreated to Jack River House, and the colony was once again destroyed. The war between the HBC and the NWC, had been started.
RAGE
Once Lord Selkirk became aware of the situation, he was infuriated. He travelled west from Monteal, with an army of 95 Swiss Mercenaries, the finest warriors at their time. He took control of the NWC depot of Fort William. and under the protection of the Mercenaries, the colonists started once again.
PEACE
Peace came in the form of treaties and negotiations this time in the spring of 1817, as Selkirk and the Ojibwa and Cree tribes settled on a deal. In exchange of giving them 100 pounds of tobacco a year, the colonists would be allowed to have the land of the Red River Valley. Selkirk left with peace of mind, feeling that the matter had been dealt justly. What could've been a long and lengthy war was settled peacefully, as this matter set a major precedent for any future conflicts, should the need arrive.
PROUD
This moment in Canadian history was very glorious in the fact that it was settled peacefully. Canadians are known for their politeness, and this fact can be seen as far back as 1817. Despite having control over 95 Swiss Mercenaries, Lord Selkirk did not take complete control of the area thorugh war, but rather negotiated on the terms of both parties. This resulted in more people feeling satisfied with how things had been done, and ensured that the colony would have a bright future.
The Red River Rebellion was a very important event in Canadian history, as cultures clashed, companies fought, and heroes and villains emerged from both side. Despite its seemingly violent history, it originated from a seemingly selfless act. Thomas Douglas, who was he Fifth Earl of Selkirk, felt a genuine sense of sorrow and empathy, as poor tenant farmers were being evicted from their homes. Wool was very profitable, and so lands were enclosed so sheep could graze, and the poor farmers were forced to leave. Lord Selkirk, being the director of the HBC (Hudson Bay Company), sought to hit two birds with one stone, as with one fluid action, he would solve the food crisis of the HBC, and the needs of the now evicted farmers. He discovered that the soil in the Red River Valley was especially fertile, and the evicted farmers could farm the land and the HBC would also benefit with having a closer food source compared to England. So it was decided, the HBC gave Selkirk 300, 000 square kilometers of land for his ambitious project.
FAILURE
To the farmers dismay, the land they were promised was still wild, and had to be cleared of trees. Hard work and determination was of little significance, as the crops they had sown in the spring had failed. Sheltering in Fort Pembina, the settlers were met with greater success, it still wasn't enough to guarantee a stable food supply. Miles Macdonell, the leader of the expedition, feared that the future of the colony would be lost if they didn't act fast. Thus, despite being warned by Selkirk to stay clear of the NWC (North West Company) the 'Pemmican Proclamation' was issued.
RESISTANCE
The Pemmican Proclamation effectively banned the export of all pemmican in the Red River Valley, thus cutting off the Metis from a key source of income. The relied on their sales of pemmican to the NWC, the HBC's rival, and this proclamation infuriated them. They started their onslaught of harassment, burning the colonist's barns, trampling on their crops, and disturbing them in their sleep. Unable to tolerate this any further, the colonists left, only to return by the summer's end. Colin Robertson took command of the situation, and in the interests of both parties, declared peace. This peace would not last long, as both sides started preparing for what seemed like in inevitable war.
FIRST RAID
In May 1816, Cuthbert Grant led a small group of Metis to the Assinibione River, where they raided a brigade of HBC boats. They seized a hefty quantity of pemmican, as this action was viewed as a direct attack on the HBC's authority in the area. Grant would arrive at the colony in one month, this time with a team of better armed and trained soldiers, as war loomed over the horizon.
DISCRIMINATION
The Metis being of French and Native descent, were viewed as animals by the more 'sophisticated' and 'well-bred' English. They had been constantly discriminated against by the settlers, who felt that talks and negotiations with the Metis was a waste of time, as they couldn't understand civility. These thoughts propelled Grant to lead his team and attack the colony in an all-out war. Brute force was the only thing they could understand.
WAR
It lasted only 15 minutes, but those 15 minutes would carry an effect so large, it would be felt for many years to come. The Metis were far better armed and disciplined than the settlers, who despite their superior weapons, soon fell quickly. Thanks to a pincer type of attack, Semple and 20 of his men were soon killed, compared to only one Metis. The colonists retreated to Jack River House, and the colony was once again destroyed. The war between the HBC and the NWC, had been started.
RAGE
Once Lord Selkirk became aware of the situation, he was infuriated. He travelled west from Monteal, with an army of 95 Swiss Mercenaries, the finest warriors at their time. He took control of the NWC depot of Fort William. and under the protection of the Mercenaries, the colonists started once again.
PEACE
Peace came in the form of treaties and negotiations this time in the spring of 1817, as Selkirk and the Ojibwa and Cree tribes settled on a deal. In exchange of giving them 100 pounds of tobacco a year, the colonists would be allowed to have the land of the Red River Valley. Selkirk left with peace of mind, feeling that the matter had been dealt justly. What could've been a long and lengthy war was settled peacefully, as this matter set a major precedent for any future conflicts, should the need arrive.
PROUD
This moment in Canadian history was very glorious in the fact that it was settled peacefully. Canadians are known for their politeness, and this fact can be seen as far back as 1817. Despite having control over 95 Swiss Mercenaries, Lord Selkirk did not take complete control of the area thorugh war, but rather negotiated on the terms of both parties. This resulted in more people feeling satisfied with how things had been done, and ensured that the colony would have a bright future.
Louis Riel: Hero or Villain?
Rarely can one find a character as controversial and divided as Louis Riel, a man whom many regard as a hero for bringing to light the plight of the many minority groups in Canada-such as the Métis-, whereas others may deem him to be a traitor for his actions against the Canadian Government. Without a doubt, supporters of both sides cannot help but acknowledge that good or bad, Louis Riel had changed the course of history for Canada forever. A hero is someone who displays courage and possesses a selfless heart, therefore due to his many benevolent actions and deeds, such as standing up for the rights of the Métis, being responsible for the creation of Manitoba and Saskatchewan with a full list of rights, and the fact that throughout his life he had nothing but good intentions for the future of the Métis, Louis Riel should be regarded as a hero.
Firstly, it goes without mention that Lois Riel was a champion of the Métis, and took on the difficult and arduous task of leading them in their pursuit of equal rights in the eyes of the Canadian government. He led the provisional government they had created, in a bid to set the kind of laws and rights they wanted to see established in the Canadian government, and these ideas are reflected in the list of rights he had proposed. Riel also possessed many admirable skills such as leadership and decisiveness, which greatly helped him when making key decisions in the best interest of the Métis. Despite the many controversial decisions he had made, such as the execution of Thomas Scott and the seizure of Fort Gary during the Red River Rebellion, one cannot help but notice that all of his actions were in the best interest of the Métis, and that despite the many personal benefits he would’ve received if he had abandoned the Métis (reacceptance by the government, life of comfort), not once did he even consider backstabbing them.
There are many who would argue that Louis Riel was a cowardly man, seeking nothing but power and personal benefit, therefore he should not be called a hero. By examining Riel’s actions and understanding his motives, it is clearly evident that this is not the case. Louis Riel had an education in law, and if he had wanted, he could’ve easily retired to a life of luxury as a lawyer in Quebec. Instead, he saw the plight of the Métis and due to his selfless qualities, felt compelled to help them. This further strengthens the notion that Riel was always looking out for the interests of the Métis (and minority groups in general), which was further strengthened when he returned for the Northwest Rebellion, abandoning his comfortable life in the U.S.A. Deep down, Louis Riel was very patriotic towards Canada, and wouldn’t even consider rebelling against Canada. Alas, fate would have it that due to the fact that the politicians in Ottawa were turning a deaf ear towards his direction, and he was forced to take drastic measures. Despite popular belief, Riel was rebelling against the traditional European ignorance held by the government officials, and was never rebelling against the structure that is known as Canada. Louis Riel just wanted equal rights for the Métis, and in the process also ‘gave birth’ to both Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
In conclusion, Louis Riel was a man of courage, and great loyalty towards his country, as his true intentions had always been with helping the Métis achieve equal status in Canada, further supporting true Canadian ideals such as acceptance and equality. Riel will always be remembered as a leader who fought for his people, and in the process changed the history of Canada permanently, for which we can thank him for Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In the end, thanks to his exceptional courage and leadership Louis Riel is a true Canadian hero.
Monday, 13 June 2011
Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR)
The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was not only a convenient means to link up both coasts of Canada, nor was it just a feat of engineering. Rather, it was a symbol which gave insight into the potential of this great country, when we unite and persevere as a whole country to pursue a goal.
Origin
Sir John A. Macdonald (the first Canadian prime minister) had a vision, where the he could unite the land and its people. Despite the emerging Canadian identity, the huge physical gap which separated the east from the west didn't go unnoticed. In a bid to unite both sides of the country, Macdonald decided to build a railway which would do just that. At the time this idea seemed ridiculous and impossible, but Sir John A. Macdonald remained determined, and even used this idea as a major party platform (National Policy) during the election.
Controversy
Pros
-Increase more trade between both sides of Canada
-Unites west and east; gives people a sense of Canadian Identity
-Faster and more convenient transportation across Canada
-Increases Canadian presence in the West; protects against U.S. assimilation
-Creates more jobs
-Encouraged British Columbia to join Confederation
Cons
-Very expensive
-'Impossible' to complete
-Economic depression, 'would drive Canada to brink'
Outcome
Thanks to Macdonald's perseverance, and the efforts of Van Horne, who tackled the project, the railway was finally completed in the fall of 1885, which was five years ahead of schedule. Critics of the railway soon came to admire its convenience as the North West Rebellion broke out, and troops and supplies arrived in record time.
PROUD
The completion of this successful project serves as a reminder. A reminder that once, not so long ago. There was a man, a man with a dream. He dreamed of a country; a country like none other. A country where people, not Englishmen or Frenchmen, but people, could stand united underneath a common flag. In order to prove to his critics that he wasn't insane, and it was possible to achieve great goals under his idea, he decided to build a railway which stretched across this country, and united everyone. It served as a remainder that we are all connected as Canadians, and also served as an inspiration to all those naysayers, all those critics of the power of teamwork and determination who doubted. Where there's a will there's a way, and what better example than that of John A. Macdonald's steel determination and perseverance to build a railway which in words, streched 'from sea, to shining sea.'
Origin
Sir John A. Macdonald (the first Canadian prime minister) had a vision, where the he could unite the land and its people. Despite the emerging Canadian identity, the huge physical gap which separated the east from the west didn't go unnoticed. In a bid to unite both sides of the country, Macdonald decided to build a railway which would do just that. At the time this idea seemed ridiculous and impossible, but Sir John A. Macdonald remained determined, and even used this idea as a major party platform (National Policy) during the election.
Controversy
Pros
-Increase more trade between both sides of Canada
-Unites west and east; gives people a sense of Canadian Identity
-Faster and more convenient transportation across Canada
-Increases Canadian presence in the West; protects against U.S. assimilation
-Creates more jobs
-Encouraged British Columbia to join Confederation
Cons
-Very expensive
-'Impossible' to complete
-Economic depression, 'would drive Canada to brink'
Outcome
Thanks to Macdonald's perseverance, and the efforts of Van Horne, who tackled the project, the railway was finally completed in the fall of 1885, which was five years ahead of schedule. Critics of the railway soon came to admire its convenience as the North West Rebellion broke out, and troops and supplies arrived in record time.
PROUD
The completion of this successful project serves as a reminder. A reminder that once, not so long ago. There was a man, a man with a dream. He dreamed of a country; a country like none other. A country where people, not Englishmen or Frenchmen, but people, could stand united underneath a common flag. In order to prove to his critics that he wasn't insane, and it was possible to achieve great goals under his idea, he decided to build a railway which stretched across this country, and united everyone. It served as a remainder that we are all connected as Canadians, and also served as an inspiration to all those naysayers, all those critics of the power of teamwork and determination who doubted. Where there's a will there's a way, and what better example than that of John A. Macdonald's steel determination and perseverance to build a railway which in words, streched 'from sea, to shining sea.'
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