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507 BCE
Democracy in Ancient Greece
Ancient Greek democracy, particularly in Athens during the 5th century BCE, was a form of direct democracy where eligible citizens had the opportunity to participate directly in decision-making. Athenian democracy was characterized by its direct citizen involvement, but it had limitations in terms of inclusivity and representation by modern standards. But it remains influential in the history of political thought in Canada. -
Period: 507 BCE to 322 BCE
Ancient Greece Democracy
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31 BCE
The Roman Empire
The Roman Empire was a vast political entity that spanned three continents. Its influence on the Canadian government, like many other modern systems, is indirect and mediated through various historical and philosophical channels. The Roman Empire's legacy in Canada's governmental structure is primarily seen through the broader Western tradition shaped by Roman culture. Key aspects of Roman influence include legal heritage, representative governance, and the concept of citizenship. -
Period: 31 BCE to 476
Roman Empire
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1100
Iroquois Confederacy
The Iroquois Confederacy was a political alliance of Indigenous nations in North America. Established before colonizer contact, it featured a unique political structure with a central council, the Grand Council, where member nations made decisions through consensus. Influence of the Iroquois Confederacy on Canadian government could included that aspects of its political structure, such as confederation model and consensus decision-making, may have influenced the development of democratic ideals. -
Period: 1100 to
Iroquois Confederacy
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1215
The Magna Carta
Signed in 1215, it was a historic document that aimed to limit the arbitrary powers of the English monarch and establish certain legal principles. Considered a foundational document for constitutionalism and the rule of law. In terms of its influence on the Canadian government, it has played a crucial role in shaping legal and constitutional foundations. Its role can also be seen through the establishment of a responsible government and the adoption of legal protections for individual rights. -
Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes was an English philosopher whose work has had a profound impact on political theory. He is best known for his social contract theory and his views on the nature of government and human behavior. His ideas have contributed to broader discussions on governance, political authority, and the social contract, shaping the intellectual landscape that informs modern political thought and government structures. -
Period: to
Thomas Hobbes
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Divine Right of Kings
The Divine Right of Kings was a political theory that emerged in the medieval and early modern periods, asserting that monarchs derived their authority directly from God. According to this, monarchs held a divine mandate to rule. In terms of its influence on the Canadian government, the Divine Right of Kings played a role during the colonial era when Canada was under European rule. The British monarchy, the ruling authority over Canada, was often perceived as having a divine sanction to govern. -
John Locke
Locke was an influential English philosopher whose ideas have had a profound impact on political thought and the development of modern liberal democracy. Locke's major works have shaped the principles of individual rights, government by consent, and the rule of law. While not the sole influence, his ideas have played a significant role in shaping the philosophical foundations of the Canadian government, particularly with respect to individual rights, democratic governance, and the rule of law. -
Period: to
John Locke
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Great British Parliament
The British Parliament is the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom, consisting of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It is responsible for making and passing laws, scrutinizing the government, and debating important national issues. While Canada has evolved its own constitutional framework and has gained significant autonomy, the influence of the British Parliament remains evident in its political institutions, legal principles, and governance structures. -
The American Revolution
Thirteen colonies sought to break away from British rule and establish the USA. Arose due to a variety of factors, such as taxation without representation, restrictions on colonial self-governance, and a desire for greater autonomy. Its aftermath contributed to the demographic, political, and constitutional landscape of what later became Canada. Influx of Loyalists and the influence of American political thought indirectly shaped the development of Canadian governance and institutions. -
Period: to
The American Revolution
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The French Revolution
Characterized by profound social, political, and economic changes, including the overthrow of the monarchy, the rise of radical political ideologies, and the establishment of the First French Republic. Influenced Canadian government by inspiring ideological shifts towards liberty and equality, fostering reform movements, and contributing to the demand for constitutional changes in Lower Canada. This influence ultimately played a role in the Confederation of Canada, shaping political trajectory. -
Period: to
The French Revolution
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The Great Depression (Canada)
The Great Depression was a severe economic downturn, with widespread unemployment, financial instability, and a sharp decline in industrial production. The Great Depression had a profound impact on Canada, prompting the government to adopt interventionist policies, implement relief measures, and lay the groundwork for the development of social welfare programs. -
Period: to
The Great Depression (Canada)