Canada in the 20th Century

Laurier intended to compare the nineteenth century to the twentieth century when he saidthat Canada would fill the new century. He claimed that the nineteenth century belonged to theUnited States but “it is Canada that shall fill the twentieth century.” This can be interpreted tomean that Laurier either believed that Canada would replace the power of the United Stateswithin the century or that Canada would fill the century with its growing international relationsand influence... Canada did not gain the power that the United Stated had but certainly filled the century with its growing independence from the British Empire and international relationships formed without the help of Great Britain. The economy had high points, like after the First World War and low points like the Great Depression and sense of national unity did the same. In brief, the country changed in ways unimaginable from the beginning of the century under Prime Minister Laurier to the end of the century under Prime Minister Chrétien. Canada continues to develop, and the optimism displayed in the early years by Laurier have influenced a country that is constantly modified and improved by leaders of today.
Canada in the 20th Century

Emily Dawe

Grade 10

Holy Heart of Mary High
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

I like learning about the political platforms of past prime ministers and their contributions to Canada's international relations!

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