Canada: a Quiet Force in the 20th Century

Sir Wilfrid Laurier believed that “Canada [would] fill the 20th century.” It was a logical statement in the time when it was made, but it did not come to pass. Canada's achievements throughout the century, while significant and noteworthy, were really not very prominent on an international scale. The 20th century was not Canada's, but perhaps that is not so unfortunate as one would think. Laurier said that “Canada has been modest in its history” and that is true. Canada has never really been one for the spotlight, but it has still been an important player in the background of world affairs. It is the home of scientists, artists, and many others who have helped advance humanity as a whole. It has kept peace where other countries would gladly see war. Canada will carry this role into the 21st century, and perhaps even fill it with its advancements and contributions to the world, but it will not be done with showiness and drama. It will be done in the same fashion that Canada does everything else, with peace and humility.
Canada: a Quiet Force in the 20th Century

Kyra Ewart

Grade 11

Lions Gate Christian Academy
North Vancouver, British Columbia

I chose this question because, while I disagree with Laurier's statement, I wanted to outline Canada's accomplishments over the past century

Related Essays

  • Did Canada Fill the Twentieth Century?

    Did Canada Fill the Twentieth Century?

    Victor Poznanski

    Toronto, Ontario

    My favourite part of Canadian history is learning about the past and how to make improvements upon our past mistakes.

  • The Twentieth Century: A Century For A World

    The Twentieth Century: A Century For A World

    Linda Xia

    Surrey, British Columbia

    When I saw this question, I saw it as a challenge to see if I could prove that history shows us that the world is bigger than our country.

 
View all essays