Factors Leading to Canadian Confederation Overview 6 Factors

Factors Leading to Canadian Confederation

Overview: 6 Factors 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. The Threat of an American Takeover Political Deadlock in Upper & Lower Canada The Trouble with Trade Fenian Raids The Need for Rail Links Changing British Attitudes

Situation in the USA Ø From 1861 until 1865, the Americans had been fighting in brutal a civil war. Ø A civil war is a war between people who live in the same country. Ø In the American Civil War, the northern states were fighting against the south. Ø The south was fighting to break away from the rest of the USA, but the north did not want this to happen.

Ø U. S. Purchased Alaska from Russia Ø American settlers, railways were moving close to the Red River Settlement Ø Gold Rush brought many Americans to the colony of British Colombia.

Manifest Destiny spreads her wings over North America

Panic Attack! Ø When the north won the civil war in 1865, Canadians worried that they would send their army into Canada as a way of getting back at Britain Ø Many American newspapers and politicians were discussing the takeover of Canada at this time. Ø Many Americans believed in Manifest Destiny, the belief that one day the USA would control all of North America.

Video Clip Ø Watch the following clip from Canada: A People’s History about the growing concern from the American Civil War.

Your Turn… Ø Do you believe that the threat of American take over was a legitimate concern? Ø If you were a political leader in Upper or Lower Canada in the 1860’s would you have pushed for confederation to occur or be happy with remaining a British colony? Why or why not?

Political Deadlock Ø To settle the dispute between the French and English within Upper and Lower Canada during the Rebellions of 1836 -37, the British Government decided that the fairest way to establish a government was to give each side equal representation.

Equal Representation Problem Ø I need two volunteers to come to the front. Each side is given a scenario that they believe in and when the vote happens both are to vote for what they believe.

Ø What is the outcome? Ø What problems does this outcome pose? Ø How could any laws be passed?

Ø As a result of equal representation, our government became very ineffective. Ø Leaders such as Sir. John A. Mac. Donald finally got annoyed and tried to establish a new system of government by expanding the colony and thus expanding the number of votes available to hopefully pass laws.

The Trouble With Trade Ø British North America had been enjoying a special arrangement (“the corn law”) where they could trade with Britain at reduced prices and a low amount of tax. Ø Under the Corn Laws, Canadian products such as wheat and flour could be imported by Britain at cost that was lower than growing it themselves. Ø America did not enjoy this preferential treatment, and had to pay higher taxes to trade with Britain

Corn Laws: Explained! The corn laws were good for Canada because they allowed the country to export raw materials overseas Ø The export of products makes revenue (money) for Canada, which increases the wealth and economy of the nation. Ø Without the corn laws, Canada would have to compete against the rest of the world and pay the same taxes as everyone else! Ø

Fenian Raids Ø Irish in U. S who fought against Britain Ø Figured if they captured British Colonies the British would leave Ireland. – Attacked Canada several times.

What Effect Did the Raids Have? Ø 1. Sir John A. argued a strong united nation would be more able to resist Fenians. Ø 2. Growing feeling of resentment towards U. S – More reason to be united.

The Need for Rail Links Ø Very Important to have a railway for effective trade. Ø “Grand Trunk Railway” – Project to connect Canada West to Maritimes Ø Only way to finish it was to be united. Share expenses.

ØRailway is essential for: l l l Trade Defense against U. S – easier movement of troops Confederation

No Money, No Train. People realized that the track could only be completed if expenses were shared between all the colonies Ø This link was essential for the defense of Canada, as troops could be moved quickly. Ø A railway link between the colonies was essential for trade and defense. Ø John A. Mac. Donald was determined to see his dream through… Ø

A Change of Heart In 1846, Britain suddenly announced that it was no longer giving Canada special treatment. Ø Britain replaced the corn laws with free trade, which meant that Britain would allow goods to enter the country without any taxes/tariffs, making them cheaper to buy & sell. Ø This made Canadians upset and caused serious problems with the economy of British North America. Ø

Bring on Confederation!!

Your Task… Option 1: Ø Create a visual timeline based on historical research illustrating all the events leading to Canadian Confederation. Ø Option 2: Ø Create an editorial written report based on researched facts and opinions that clearly states whether you believe the decision to pursue Confederation was the right or wrong decision. Ø