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United Nations Peacekeeping Missions (International)
Canada was an important contribution to the United Nations Peacekeeping Missions. Canadians were deployed into various war zones all over the world to promote peace and stability. Canada became one of the most proclaimed countries during this time because of its efforts toward peacekeeping. They also contributed a lot of time and resources towards these missions. -
Canadian Bill of Rights (Political)
Canada's Prime Minister John Diefenbaker introduced the first Federal law to protect human rights. The Canadian Bill of Rights was enacted which provided Canadians with individual rights and freedoms on the Federal level. This bill laid the foundation for future human rights legislation. -
International Development Initiatives (International)
Canada was gradually becoming more and more involved in international development efforts. An example of this was the establishment of The Canadian International Development Agency. The CIDA provided humanitarian aid, promoted sustainable development, and alleviated poverty in developing countries. -
The Official Languages Act (Cultural)
Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau declared English and French as Canada's official languages. This Act aimed to promote bilingualism and protect language rights. It also helped to promote and reflect on the rights of linguistic communities and diversity across the country. -
Multiculturalism Policy (Cultural)
Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau introduced this as an official policy. It recognized and promoted the cultural diversity of Canada and preserved the freedom of Canadian citizens. It also aimed to preserve and enhance cultural identities while promoting equality and social unity. -
The Global Oil Crisis (Economic)
Caused by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries, Saudi Arabia declared an oil ban. This led to a great increase in oil prices and energy shortages. This event harmed Canada's economy but also allowed the country to find energy independently. Domestic energy resources were established. -
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Post-War Economic Boom (Economic)
After World War II ended, Canada went through a period of time where the economy was growing and prospering. There was a demand for Canadian goods and resources, while the government was promoting industrialization and infrastructure development. The combination of the two contributed to Canada's thriving economy. -
Constitution Act (Political)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Queen Elizabeth II Signed the Consitution Act allowing it to take effect. The Consitution Act included the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms which declared Canada as a free and democratic country. It also allowed Canada to be an independent country meaning Britain's consent was not necessary anymore. -
The Meech Lake Accord (Political)
The goal of the Meech Lake Accord was an attempt to gain Quebec's acceptance of the Consitution Act of 1982. This Accord was never put into effect causing it to fail. Quebec saw this failure as a rejection and lead to political controversy and tension between Quebec and the rest of Canada. -
Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (Economic)
On this date, the Free Trade Agreement was signed by U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Canada's Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. The purpose of this was to remove trade tariffs between Canada and the United States. The agreement also expanded market access for Canadian businesses. -
The Oka Crisis (Cultural)
The Oka Crisis was a 78-day standoff between mohawk protesters, the Quebec government, and the Canadian Army over the expansion of a golf course. This golf course was intended to be expanded onto Mohawk burial grounds and a sacred grove. The tensions between the two groups grew but drew attention to indigenous land rights and sparked discussions on reconciliation and self-determination. -
1990's Recession (Economic)
This recession was one of the more severe recessions that Canada has experienced. It was caused due to high-interest rates, a collapse in real estate, and a slowdown in demand. Because of this, there was a distinct increase in unemployment and a decline in economic activity. -
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The Gulf War (International)
After Iraq invaded Kuwait, the United States led a multi-national coalition which Canada joined. The Canadian Armed Forces were an important aspect to the war as they provided many services and resources. They Contributed troops, aircraft, and naval assets which helped lead the American-led coalition forces to victory. -
Creation of the Goods and Services Tax (Political)
Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and his government introduced GST which is a federal consumption tax. This tax caused lots of controversy and built tension between the government, opposition parties, and citizens. Liberals even requested a vote to "kill the GST", but the government didn't like the idea of the bill being in danger. Although GST caused controversy it remained in place and still is today. -
Charlottetown Accord (Political)
The Charlottetown Accord was another attempt to address constitutional issues and have Quebec consent to the Consitution Act of 1982. Quebec was offered to have recognition as a distinct society, but it was rejected in a nationwide vote. From this attempt, divisions among Canadians regarding constitutional reform were revealed.