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Canada declares war on Germany
Canada declares war on Germany, one week after Britain and France, asserting its independence in foreign policy. -
The first Canadian troops are sent to Britain
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Troops arrive in the UK
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Japan attacks Pearl Harbor
Canada declares war on Japan the same day. -
Battle of Hong Kong
nearly 2,000 Canadians defend the colony; 290 are killed, 493 wounded, and many captured. -
The Conscription Plebiscite is held
Canadians vote on whether the government can send conscripted soldiers overseas. Most English-speaking Canadians vote "yes," but many French-speaking Canadians vote "no." This causes tension between the two groups. -
D-Day
Canadian troops land at Juno Beach in France. It’s part of a huge Allied invasion to free Europe from Nazi control. Over 14,000 Canadians land that day. -
Canadian soldiers help liberate the Netherlands
freeing Dutch people from years of Nazi occupation. -
Victory in Europe
Germany surrenders. The war in Europe is over. -
Victory over Japan
Japan surrenders. World War II is officially over.