The Impact Of World War I On Canada

As Abraham Lincoln once said “I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him”, Canada’s war effort likewise rippled a similar nationalistic sentiment. Although more than half a million Canadian enlisted and fought. With severe casualties, Britain nonetheless pressured Borden to raise more soldiers for the war effort. But not only casualties discouraged men to take part, the nationalistic loyalty of French-Canadians was heavily conflicted. French-Canadians. comprised 30% of the population were willing and loyal to fight for Canada itself, but knowing the war cause was not directly related to Canada , and due to Britain’s participation, they were discouraged to join
surprised not only its mother Britain but the axis power Germany as well. Though the sacrifice was costly, Canada gained its standing in the world arena in many ways. Fighting through many battles as World War 1 progressed, Canada likewise increased its recognition. The significant battles that affirmed Canadian Corps as an entity distinguished from the British forces were the Battle of Ypres, Somme, and most importantly Vimy Ridge. The achievements from these battles promoted Canada’s patriotism, and ultimately nationalism. The Battle of Ypres marked Canada’s first major battle. While the French retreated from Germany's extensive release of Chlorine gas, Canada—with numbers of malfunctioning weapons— valiantly stayed and held on to the line of defense until reinforcement came, Canadian earned itself a formidable reputation. Losses in each battle were costly, but the army continued to earn itself a name. Though the Battle of Somme was inconclusive, even Germany was shocked by how audaciously Canada fought as British Politician Lloyd George quoted “Whenever the Germans found the Canadian Corps coming into the line, they prepared for the worst." From being inexperienced and ‘under the shadow’ of Britain, they were recognized as “storm troops” that fought for Canada. However, to put the nail to the coffin, the Battle of Vimy Ridge was Canada’s turning point; it was a nation-making moment when Canadian
After the war, Canada and the other Dominions played a large role and were recognized when they signed the Treaty of Versailles independently. Just as the other dominions did, Canada was allowed separate membership, and separate representation and signatures on the treaty and other conventions. Recognized as storm troops in the battlefield, Canada proved itself to defend itself, as such war achievements in Battle of Ypres, Somme, and Vimy Ridge led to the Statute of Westminster; the confirmation that Canada is a self-determined and independent nation. Although sacrifice was many, the war was though an ordeal by fire, it was a stepping stone to Canada’s nationalism and its representation in the