On the Origins of Canada

‘The Statute, of course, was not sudden. Its roots can be easily traced back to April of 1917 when, for the first time in its history, all four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together to accomplish something that Entente forces had lost 150,000 men trying to achieve: the seizure of Vimy Ridge. This was an inspiring accomplishment, and one of which all Canadians were, and are, proud. Engulfed in the moment, Lieutenant Gregory Clark said, post-battle: “As far as I could see […] there were the Canadians. And I experienced my first full sense of nationhood.” This sentiment was echoed across the nation; Canada, drawn into the war by Britain, had proven itself as an independent fighting force. It was not only Canada that took note of the tremendous valour exhibited by the Corps; due in large part to their massive sacrifice and unrivalled contributions, Canada made impressive strides in international relations with the Treaty of Versailles. Not only did Prime Minister Borden’s signature appear on the Treaty, but Canada also obtained its own seat at the newly-formed League of Nations. It was these gains that led to complete independence a mere decade and a half later.’