Hidden Gems of Canadian History: Key Facts and Curiosities

Canadian history is rich with intriguing and lesser-known events that often go untold. From the interesting origins of the word 'Canada' to the surprising involvement of the Canadian army in suppressing citizen uprisings, there are numerous fascinating facts that most Canadians are not aware of.

The Origins of Canada

One of the most fascinating facts about Canadian history is the origin of the word 'Canada.' According to historical records, in the 16th century, a French explorer made a mistake. He mistakenly believed that a native word for a nearby village meant 'Canada.' As a result, the St Lawrence watershed was named Canada. This misunderstanding has had a lasting impact, shaping the name and identity of the country we know today.

Surprising Military Actions

Beyond the well-known conflicts and wars, there are instances where the Canadian army was deployed against its own citizens. An example of this is the use of military force in 1913 during a coal miners' strike in Nanaimo, British Columbia. The government sent in the army to suppress the strike. This action reflects the complex relationship between the state and its citizens, highlighting that the history of Canada is not just a story of nation-building but also of internal strife and suppression.

Limited Knowledge of Provincial History

Despite the abundance of history in Canada, many Canadians are poorly informed about their own provincial histories. The curriculum in schools often focuses on national history, leaving provincial histories to be explored by curious individuals or through extra-curricular activities. For instance, as someone who grew up in British Columbia (BC), I found that the curriculum focused more on British history than BC history. This pattern is common across Canada, where knowledge of provincial history is often lacking.

The Case of British Columbia

For those who have grown up in BC, there are significant gaps in knowledge about the province's history. Spend a decade away from BC, and even more information might be forgotten. BC high school students may be well-versed in the details of Confederation and the role of John A Macdonald but may not be as familiar with BC-specific historical events and figures.

The RCMP and the Northwest Territories

The role of the RCMP in the Northwest Territories, and their actions against indigenous communities, is another troubling example of Canadian history. In an effort to 'encourage' the relocation of indigenous communities to community centers, RCMP officers killed thousands of sled dogs, claiming the dogs were diseased. This action directly impacted the livelihood of indigenous hunters, forcing them to rely on welfare and other public support systems.

Conclusion

These facts highlight the importance of delving deeper into the history of regions beyond the national narrative. Understanding provincial and local histories is crucial in recognizing the diverse and complex nature of Canada. Whether it’s the origins of a country’s name, military actions against citizens, or the impact of government policies on indigenous communities, there is much to uncover and learn about the hidden gems of Canadian history.