How The Second World War Affected Canada

As its name suggests, the Second World War was a widespread conflict involving the action of many nations, among them Canada. Canada both affected and was affected by World War Two, by means of military endeavours such as the Dieppe of Raid, the Italian Campaign, and D-Day, as well as through home front support and changes in autonomy.

Over a million Canadians gave their lives fighting in the war, the Canadian army showing their strength and courage in many important battles that helped concrete victories for the Allied forces. Although training for the war since 1939 the first large-scale and action heavy attack on the Western front that Canadian troops were involved in was the Dieppe Raid, on August 19th, 1942. The raid was the combined
This plan was made possible due to the Allied Forces control of Northern Africa. The efforts known as the Italian Campaign became the largest campaign Canada was involved in during the war. Canadian troops invaded the island of Sicily on July 10th, 1943 in the Battle of Sicily, also known as Operation Husky. Soldiers were surprised to find Italian troops quick to surrender and managed to capture the island in 38 days. It is believed this led to Mussolini’s downfall which took place shortly after. The new Italian government surrendered however Germany did not, and the Allies followed German troops to the Italian mainland. Here Canadians were given the task of capturing the Adriatic town of Ortona, first having to capture several smaller towns along the way. When forces reached Ortona fighting slowed and battles were often fought house by house through the streets of the town. On December 28th, 1943 Canadian captured the town, but at a heavy cost, with 1372 soldiers dying in the battles. After the capture, Canadian forces continued to advance through Italy until called to help troops in France. The Italian Campaign was integral in the defeat of Italy and showed once again the might and valour of Canadians. Unfortunately, there was a cost, with over 6000 Canadians dying while fighting in
The decision was made to join a week after Britain declared war on Germany, as the matter needed to be discussed in the house of parliament. This was one of many ways Canada showed and built upon its autonomy during the war. Canada proved it’s military might in many battles, concreting that it was more than just a former British colony, but in fact a strong, tough, influential nation. Treaties were formed between Canada and countries like Italy and Norway. Although seemingly small this along with their independent decision to declare war were important symbols of autonomy, sending the message that Canada was an independent nation that made its own decisions about important issues, such as war. This newfound sense of independence both among citizens and internationally led to Canada beginning to really form its own unique culture, and governmental policies, not feeling as much obligation to act as their founders