Canada Post-War 1945-1970
With the discovery of oil in Alberta in 1947 and the growth of the economy due to unrestricted trading partners, particularly the United States (Canada’s number one trading partner), Canada enjoyed prosperity and one of the world’s highest standards of living. Toronto became Canada’s financial capital
Social programs grew and international engagement became significant. Canada joined NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and NORAD (the North American Defence Command) as well as the UN (United Nations) during this time.
Quebec’s Quiet Revolution
During the 1960s, many Quebecers wanted to separate from Canada and create their own government, language and culture; this time was known as the “Quiet Revolution”. The movement continued to grow over the following decades and gain strength, but in 1980, when the referendum was placed on the ballot, it was defeated in the province. Sovereignty was defeated again in another referendum in 1995, but it continues to be a hotly debated topic.
Voting Rights
In 1948, Canadians of Asian descent, the Japanese Canadians, gained the right to vote in federal and provincial elections. In 1960, Aboriginal people were granted that right. Today every citizen 18 or over may vote.
Notable Canadians: Discoveries and Inventions
Perhaps two of the best known Canadians, because of their discovery of insulin to treat diabetes and save over 16 million lives worldwide, are Charles Best and Sir Frederick Banting. But there are some other notable Canadian inventors too: