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Discover the pivotal role of Canada in the South African War and its impact on the nation's journey towards independence from Britain, with diverse perspectives shaping its future. Explore why and how Canada became involved, and the lasting effects on national identity.
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Canada as a Nation What made us who we are?
Different Perspectives • Canada should… • stay a part of Britain. • support Britain’s decisions. Imperialists
Different Perspectives • Canada should… • become its own nation. • keep ties to Britain. English-Canadian Nationalists
Different Perspectives • Canada should: • separate from Britain. • control all its own affairs. French-Canadian Nationalists
Different Perspectives • Canada should… • separate from Britain. • become part of the United States. Annexationists
So what happened? What events led us to become a nation separate from Britain?
South African War (Boer War) WHO was involved? • British in South Africa • 2 groups of Boers • Descendants of 1st Dutch (Holland) settlers • Orange Free State & Transvaal (Diamonds) • Canada – PM Wilfred Laurier
South African War (Boer War) WHAT was it about? • Diamonds discovered in Transvaal • British wanted them. • Boers wouldn’t give political rights to British. • British built a military base nearby. • Boers declared war on British.
South African War (Boer War) WHAT other details? • Imperialists said we should help Britain. • French-Canadian Nats said NO • Boers have the right to defend their land • English-Canadian Nats were unsure. • Not clear who was right. • 7000 soldiers, 16 nurses sent • 89 killed • 135 died from disease • 252 wounded
South African War (Boer War) WHEN did it happen? • 1899 – War between Boers and British of South Africa • 1899-1901 – Volunteer forces sent from Canada • 7000-8000 soldiers • 16 nurses • 1902 – British defeat Boers
South African War (Boer War) WHERE did it take place? • South Africa
South African War (Boer War) WHY did Canada become involved? • Compromise • To help Britain, but not send too many Canadians to fight this war. • Britain paid wages and supplies for the soldiers and nurses.
South African War (Boer War) HOW did this affect Canada’s ties to Britain? • Soldiers: • saw themselves as separate from Britain for the first time – strong sense of national pride. • won the respect of British leaders. • learned new techniques for training our soldiers. • Nationalists • thought we did too much • Imperialists • thought we did too little