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Timeline with Attitude: 1914-1929
Timeline of ten major events from 1914-1929 in Canada, which displays points of progress and decline for the still fairly young nation. -
Sikh passengers aboard the Komagata Maru are denied entry into Canada
376 passengers arrived in Canada on board the Komagata Maru, and all but 22 were sent back to their origins where 20 were killed and 27 arrested. This is a dark spot on Canada's history, showcasing the racism and bias that was so widespread at the time. -
The First World War begins, killing over 60,000 Canadians over its span of four years.
There were many losses, but many gains as well. It is hard to tell whether this war was one of progress or decline for the country. While many, including myself, think the losses of life were not worth the recognition and further independence, it certainly progressed Canada's development as a nation and got the soldiers a reputation for their efficacy. -
Canadians take back Vimy Ridge, bringing a sense of pride and patriotism towards their country and unity between each other, no matter the provincial or cultural difference.
While no other allied force could do it, the Canadian troops took Vimy Ridge, earning a reputation for themselves as capable, efficient and formidable troops. This led to Canada's increased independence from the British Empire, unity between troops, and was a brilliant victory for the Allied forces. The battle remains a proud moment of Canadian history today. -
Women are granted suffrage in the majority of provinces
For the first time, women who had relations to soldiers in the army were able to participate in federal votes. While many were still not permitted to cast their vote due to their race, origin or lack of relation to a soldier, it was a large step of progress for suffragettes. -
The Halifax Explosion
A collision between two ships in the Halifax Harbour caused the largest man-made explosion before the invention of the nuclear bomb, killing 2000. One of the ships was carrying munitions, causing the explosion after the initial collision. Around 11,000 were either killed or injured, including many schoolchildren who were sent home by teachers. This saw a very subdued and tragic holiday season. -
Winnipeg General Strike
The largest strike in Canadian history, caused by low wages. It did not help matters in any way, but unified Canada’s workers in their want for higher pay. A month later, Bloody Saturday, in which Royal Canadian Mounted Police were authorized to beat and shoot the crowd of strikers, killing two and injuring thirty, marked the end of the strikes. -
The Group of Seven pushes through the old traditions of art in Canada and starts a new exhibit, showing Canada in ways never seen before.
Their exhibit started a new age of Canadian art, pushing away from the European styles adopted by the country, and inspiring many with their vision. The rugged and beautiful landscape of the Canadian Horseshoe was the muse of these artists, who got recognition from critics and artists globally. -
Discovery of Insulin
Frederick Banting and Charles Best at the University of Toronto were the first to isolate insulin, and the first patient was treated about half a year later. This saved many lives and was a groundbreaking development in the medical field. They later won a Nobel Prize for the discovery. -
The Famous Five and the Persons case
Five female activists were able to get the Supreme Court to recognize women as “persons,” making them eligible as senators. They changed the world for women in Canada, and Cairine Wilson later became the first woman appointed to the senate. This was a major step for women's rights in Canada. -
Pier 21 opens
The immigration depot, labelled the “Gateway to Canada,” opened in Halifax, accepting over a million immigrants into Canada before it closed in 1971. Halifax was a popular entry point into the country at the time and Canada's population was growing at a notable rate, therefore the depot was built to accommodate all the new arrivals. The facility is now a museum, telling the stories of immigrant and establishment alike.
