Canada’s History: Confederation, Relations, and Societal Roles
British-French Relations in Canada
The complex relationship between the British and French in Canada has deep historical roots. It began when French explorers like Champlain and Cartier claimed Canada for France. French civilization subsequently flourished for approximately two centuries. However, the dynamics shifted dramatically with the onset of the Seven Years’ War in 1756. This global conflict pitted Britain and France, along with their respective colonies, against each other. The war concluded in 1763 with a British victory, marking the end of French rule in Canada.
The pivotal Battle of the Plains of Abraham resulted in Canada becoming a British colony under the Treaty of Paris. Despite the change in governance, the British allowed the French to maintain their Catholic faith, language, and civil law. The Quebec Act of 1774 further solidified the rights of French Canadians. About a century later, in 1867, Quebec joined the Confederation, with provisions to protect French rights.
Canadian-American Relations
At the time of Confederation, the United States was aggressively expanding westward. Between 1864 and 1890, nine new states were created, four bordering Canada. The United States possessed a battle-hardened army, while Canada was still divided and relied on a militia for defense. The Americans harbored resentment from the War of 1812 and sought territorial expansion, posing a significant threat to Canada’s sovereignty.
Societal Roles of Men and Women in 19th-Century Canada
In 19th-century Canada, societal expectations clearly defined the roles of men and women.
- Women were primarily responsible for domestic duties, including:
- Housework
- Gardening
- Washing clothes and dishes
- Cooking meals
- Cleaning the house
- Childcare
Women were expected to obey their husbands and adhere to their wedding vows. Some women engaged in prostitution, textile work, or street selling to supplement their income.
- Men typically engaged in:
- Farming
- Military service
- Shop ownership
- Providing for the family (being the breadwinner)
- Politics (often accompanied by drinking and gambling)
Reasons for Canadian Confederation
Several factors contributed to the formation of the Canadian Confederation:
- Political Deadlock: Intense political deadlock between Canada East and Canada West hindered legislative progress due to opposing viewpoints and deep-seated animosity.
- American Expansionism: Canada’s sparse population felt threatened by the powerful United States. Unification was seen as a way to strengthen Canada’s position against potential American expansion.
- Need for an East-West Railway: Harsh weather conditions made transportation difficult during much of the year. A transcontinental railway was crucial for economic development and to keep pace with other colonies that already had railways.
- Great Britain’s Desire for Reduced Ties: Britain sought to grant Canada more autonomy while maintaining indirect influence, allowing the Canadian government to manage its own affairs.
- Cancellation of the Reciprocity Treaty: The United States canceled the Reciprocity Treaty, which had allowed for reduced tariffs on trade, in an attempt to force Canada into a free trade agreement.
- Expansion to the West: Canada needed more land. The vast territories of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta were still unclaimed. Canada acted quickly to claim these provinces, preventing potential American encroachment and securing valuable resources.