History Notes Summarized Flashcards
(93 cards)
1
Q
What was the initial idea discussed at the Charlottetown Conference?
A
A Maritime Union between Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island was initially considered. Leaders from Canada East were also invited. (self invited themselves to attend)
2
Q
What was George-Étienne Cartier’s main reason for supporting a larger British North American union?
A
George-Étienne Cartier supported a larger union to protect French language, culture, and rights. He was also influenced by John A. Macdonald who supported the protection of French rights and Confederation.
3
Q
What financial aspect did Alexander Galt initially propose for a larger union?
A
Alexander Galt provided initial ideas for financial arrangements for a potential larger union.
4
Q
What was George Brown’s vision for a united government?
A
George Brown envisioned a united government for British North America, initially wanting to diminish French power but later supporting Confederation for stability.
5
Q
What significant agreement was made at the Charlottetown Conference?
A
It was agreed to meet again in Québec City for formalized discussions building on the idea of a larger union.
6
Q
What were the main features of the government structure discussed after the Quebec Conference?
A
A bicameral system with a Lower House by population and an Upper House appointed for regional interests was discussed.
7
Q
What was the role of the Governor General in the proposed union?
A
The proposed union would maintain ties with Britain through a Governor General.
8
Q
What were some government responsibilities outlined in the early discussions?
A
Different levels of government would handle responsibilities such as taxes, education, and First Nations affairs.
9
Q
What document formalized the ideas drafted after the Charlottetown meetings?
A
The ideas were drafted into The 72 Resolutions (also known as the Québec Resolutions).
10
Q
What significant event occurred between October 10-27, 1864?
A
The delegates at the Québec Conference formally voted to approve the draft resolutions.
11
Q
Which groups received little attention during the Confederation discussions?
A
First Nations, Black Canadians, and women received little attention during the Confederation discussions.
12
Q
What was A.A. Dorion’s main concern regarding Confederation?
A
A.A. Dorion (a French politician) worried about the preservation of French interests and culture.
13
Q
Why did Joseph Howe of Nova Scotia oppose Confederation?
A
Joseph Howe opposed Confederation because he feared the small maritime provinces’ voice would be diminished.
14
Q
Despite opposition, who continued to pursue the union?
A
John A. Macdonald continued to pursue the union despite opposition.
15
Q
What happened during the London Conference in December 1866- March 1867?
A
Politicians from Canada East/West, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia went to London to finalize the details of the Confederation with British Officials. There they would make the BNA Act. This legislation would officially end their status as individual British colonies. They would be joined together as a united, partially self-governing country by an act of British Parliament
16
Q
What key legislation was created in London?
A
The British North America Act was created in London.
17
Q
According to the agreement, who was responsible for internal affairs?
A
Canada was made responsible for internal affairs.
18
Q
Who was responsible for external affairs according to the Confederation agreement?
A
Britain handled external affairs (foreign policy).
19
Q
When was the Dominion of Canada officially created?
A
The Dominion of Canada was created on July 1, 1867.
20
Q
Which were the four original provinces of the Dominion of Canada?
A
The four original provinces were Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
21
Q
What American idea fueled fears of annexation?
A
The American belief in Manifest Destiny fueled fears of annexation.
22
Q
How did the American Civil War relate to Confederation?
A
The American Civil War highlighted the potential for instability and expansionism, contributing to the push for Confederation.
23
Q
What US purchase increased annexation fears?
A
The US purchase of Alaska increased fears of annexation.
24
Q
Why was inadequate defence a reason for Confederation?
A
British North America’s large size and weak defence system made it vulnerable, prompting the need for unified defence through Confederation.
25
What were the Fenian Raids and why were they significant?
Fenian Raids were attacks by Irish nationalists that increased the need for a unified defence in British North America.
26
How did changing British attitudes influence Confederation?
Britain wanted to reduce the costs of defending and governing the colonies, encouraging self-sufficiency through Confederation.
27
What economic treaty cancellation created a need for intercolonial trade?
The cancellation of the Reciprocity Treaty with the US (1854-1865) created a need for intercolonial trade.
28
Why was building an Intercolonial Railway important for Confederation?
The Intercolonial Railway would boost the economy and connect the colonies, serving as a key incentive for joining.
29
What was the political deadlock in the Province of Canada
Political Deadlock was due to conflicts between Canada East (French) and Canada West (English), hindering effective governance.
30
How did Confederation aim to resolve the political deadlock?
Confederation offered a solution through separate local governments and a federal system.
31
What was the desire regarding Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory?
There was a desire to acquire Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory from the Hudson’s Bay Company.
32
What was the motivation behind acquiring western territories?
The motivation was to prevent American expansion and provide land.
33
What was Canada East's main fear regarding Confederation?
Canada East feared the loss of French language, culture, and rights under a strong central government.
34
What was the primary fear of the Atlantic Colonies regarding Confederation?
The Atlantic Colonies (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland) feared the loss of autonomy and influence.
35
What were the economic concerns of the Atlantic Colonies?
They had strong existing trade ties with Britain and the US and were uncertain about the benefits of intercolonial trade. Newfoundland also had a struggling fishing economy.
36
Why was Newfoundland geographically hesitant about joining Confederation?
Newfoundland felt geographically distinct and questioned the benefits of joining.
37
What was the general public sentiment towards Confederation discussions?
Many felt the decision was being made by politicians without proper consultation, indicating limited public support.
38
Who was excluded from the Confederation discussions despite their direct relevance?
Indigenous Peoples (First Nations) were not involved despite the federal government gaining control over "Indian Affairs".
39
What was the significance of the Charlottetown Conference (September 1864)?
It was initially for a Maritime Union, but the Province of Canada proposed a larger union (Confederation). The idea of a Maritime Union was largely set aside.
40
What was the main focus of the Québec Conference (October 1864)?
It focused on developing the details and framework for Confederation and resulted in the Québec Resolutions.
41
What was the purpose of the London Conference (December 1866 - March 1867)?
Delegates from Canada, NB, and NS went to finalize the terms of union with Britain, leading to the BNA Act.
42
What is the definition of Confederation?
Confederation is the federal union of British North American colonies to form the Dominion of Canada.
43
Define Manifest Destiny.
Manifest Destiny was the American belief in their right and duty to take over all of North America.
44
What was the Great Coalition (June 1864)?
The Great Coalition was an unlikely alliance formed by Macdonald, Brown, and Cartier to work towards Confederation.
45
What is Representation by Population?
Representation by Population is a system where the number of elected representatives is based on the population of a region, used for the House of Commons.
46
What is a Federal Union?
In a Federal Union, the power to govern and make laws is divided between the central and regional governments.
47
What did the British North America Act (BNA Act) establish?
The BNA Act (passed in 1867) established the Dominion of Canada and its constitution, outlining the structure of government and division of powers.
48
Who was John A. Macdonald and what did he advocate for?
John A. Macdonald was a Conservative Party leader (Canada West), a Father of Confederation, the first Prime Minister, and wanted a strong central government.
49
Who was Joseph Howe and what was his stance on Confederation?
Joseph Howe was a former premier of Nova Scotia who actively opposed Confederation and wrote the "Botheration Letters".
50
What was the outcome of the London Conference (Dec 1866 - Mar 1867)?
The British North America Act was drafted and passed, officially creating the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867, uniting Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia
51
What was the initial purpose of the Charlottetown Conference in September 1864?
The Charlottetown Conference was initially convened to discuss a potential Maritime Union between Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. However, the arrival of representatives from the Province of Canada led to a focus on a larger Confederation.
52
What were some examples of the government responsibilities discussed during the Confederation process?
Key examples of government responsibilities discussed included areas such as taxes, education, and First Nations.
53
What significant event occurred at the Québec Conference in October 1864 regarding the framework for Confederation?
Following discussions at the Québec Conference, the delegates formally voted to approve the draft resolutions, known as The 72 Resolutions. This formal agreement outlined the framework for Confederation.
54
Why was the alliance formed by Macdonald, Brown, and Cartier in June 1864 particularly important for Confederation?
The Great Coalition of Macdonald, Brown, and Cartier was an unlikely alliance that overcame the political deadlock in the Province of Canada. This cooperation was essential in allowing progress towards Confederation.
55
What is the key difference between a Federal Union and a Legislative Union, and which model was adopted for Canada?
Confederation established a Federal Union, where the power to govern is divided between central and regional (provincial) governments. This differs from a Legislative Union, where all governing power resides in a strong central government.
56
What formal act officially recognized the creation of the Dominion of Canada?
The union of the British North American colonies as the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867, was formally proclaimed by Queen Victoria.
57
What is notable about the early discussions concerning a Maritime Union?
The initial discussions regarding a potential Maritime Union among Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island were informal, and no official records were kept of these early deliberations.
58
What significant group was excluded from the discussions and decision-making processes leading up to Confederation, despite being under federal jurisdiction?
Despite the fact that the federal government was granted control over "Indian Affairs" under Confederation, First Nations were not involved in the discussions and decision-making processes leading up to the creation of Canada
59
What were the advantages for Canada East (Quebec) in joining Confederation?
Canada East would gain protections for French-Catholic rights, it could lead to more independence and a better future within a union, and it would receive federal payments to help cover expenses.
60
What were the disadvantages for Canada East (Quebec) in joining Confederation?
Many people in Canada East opposed Confederation. There were concerns that the general government would always win in conflicts, diminishing provincial power (J.B.E. Dorion), and a fear that French culture and language would be weakened.
Flashcard 3:
61
What were the advantages for Canada West (Ontario) in joining Confederation?
Confederation offered a better chance of resolving the political deadlock with Canada East, Canada West would have its own local government for regional issues, while also working under a central government. A federal union would give power to the central government and the provinces to run their own affairs, and political instability in Canada West could be resolved through Confederation. They would gain access to a larger economy and trade network, and John A. Macdonald favoured a strong central government, which would benefit Canada West.
62
What were the disadvantages for Canada West (Ontario) in joining Confederation?
There was also opposition to Confederation in Canada West. French Canadians feared that English-speaking Canada West politicians might try to dominate the government. Politicians worried about the cost and control of a new gov.
63
What were the advantages for Prince Edward Island in joining Confederation?
Confederation with P.E.I. would significantly boost their economy, it would strengthen their already secure relationships with Britain and the United States, and they would get better access to the mainland via a ferry system. Confederation could address the issue of land ownership, allowing tenants to buy their own land.
64
What were the disadvantages for Prince Edward Island in joining Confederation?
Leaders opposed Confederation because they foresaw many difficulties with how power was shared between local and central governments. They believed conflicts would always be resolved in favour of the central government, to the detriment of the provinces. They believed they would be giving up their rights and prosperity to the central government, and their voice in the united Parliament would be very insignificant. Joining Confederation presented a slight potential risk to their existing and beneficial economic relationships with Britain and the United States. They lost the chance of a Maritime Union, worried about having little influence in a united government, had strong trading ties with Britain and the U.S and feared losing them, and their population was small, meaning less political power in a new federal system.
65
What were the advantages for Nova Scotia in joining Confederation?
Confederation could break down trade barriers between colonies, providing access to a larger combined market of four million people. There was potential for increased inter-colonial trade. Because the Reciprocity Treaty was cancelled, Confederation would give Nova Scotia railways and payments for their current affairs, and provide access to more trading networks because of the building of railways. Eventually it would align with the desires of Britain and help them improve and defend themselves in case of American annexation.
66
What were the disadvantages for Nova Scotia in joining Confederation?
Joseph Howe, Nova Scotia's former premier, actively opposed Confederation, arguing it was unnecessary as Nova Scotia was already prosperous. There was an implication that Nova Scotia might lose its self-government and a fear that a central government would not prioritise Nova Scotia's specific needs and could harm their existing prosperity. There was also a concern that Confederation could potentially create new conflicts or disrupt Nova Scotia's existing secured relationships with Britain, the United States, and the surrounding colonies. Initially, people preferred a union with other Maritime colonies, and some worried that other provinces would pass them. There was a significant fear of being dominated and controlled by the larger "Canada" (Canada West/Ontario).
67
What were the advantages for New Brunswick in joining Confederation?
Confederation would likely provide access to a larger combined market through the breaking down of trade barriers between colonies and the potential for increased inter-colonial trade. It would eventually align with the desires of Britain and provide access to railway connections which would help in trade and economic development. It could also help improve and defend themselves in case of American annexation.
68
What were the disadvantages for New Brunswick in joining Confederation?
There was significant fear of being dominated and controlled by the larger "Canada" (Canada West/Ontario), with concern that New Brunswick would become powerless and its own interests would be secondary ("we shall be at the feet of Canada" from Albert J. Smith). There was a preference among some for a Maritime union, worries about the loss of independence, and many people were politically split, with some worried about their ties with the United States.
69
What were the disadvantages for Newfoundland in joining Confederation?
Vocal opponents such as Charles Fox Bennett persuaded many against Confederation through fear tactics, believing the economic decline was temporary. Anti-Confederationists believed sending representatives to Canada would be a heavy expense and a sacrifice of their legislation and control of their resources for Canada's benefit, with no return benefits. Newfoundland's island location posed a disadvantage, and people believed their economic suffering was temporary. Geographical isolation made the population unsure about how connected they would feel.
70
What were the advantages for the Northwest Territory in joining Confederation?
Supporters were eager to take over the vast lands of the North-Western Territory. Acquiring it through Confederation was seen as a way to prevent American expansion and secure the territory, which was seen as necessary for creating settlements. Confederation would economically support the Northwest Region, helping in its declining fur trade, and it was believed the region would grow significantly in economy, settlement, and population. Confederation would lead to railways built and more trading networks. Railways would connect east and west BNA
71
What were the advantages for British Columbia in joining Confederation?
Joining Confederation was considered as a way to help improve the economic situations after the end of the gold rush and rising debt. Railway networks would boost trade, increase settlement, and improve the economy. With Alaska purchased by the U.S., joining Confederation would help defend the Pacific Coast from potential American invasion.
72
What were the disadvantages for British Columbia in joining Confederation?
The colony was cut off geographically from the eastern colonies by the vast expanse of Hudson’s Bay Company lands. Some people preferred annexation by the United States over Confederation, viewing it as a less desirable option. The existing union of Vancouver Island and British Columbia (imposed by Britain) lacked a government responsible to the people, making another potentially distant government unappealing. Many people showed concerns about being so isolated from the mainland. Many preferred to do business with the U.S due to proximity and ease, and feared Confederation could affect those ties. Due to the debt from the end of the gold rush, there were concerns that joining Confederation could lead to higher taxes.
73
What railway issues did the provinces face, and what role did the promise of a railway link play in Confederation?
Each province had its own railway system with expansion and financial stability issues. Provinces were promised a railway link for joining Confederation.
74
According to the sources, what were the anticipated benefits of railway construction in Canada?
Railway construction would create jobs, establish Canada's reputation abroad, encourage colonization, and aid the exploitation of natural resources and agriculture. It would also lead to efficient transportation of goods and passengers, transforming Canada into a competitive economic force.
75
How did Great Britain's attitude towards its colonies change, and what were the reasons behind this shift?
Great Britain encouraged Confederation as it wanted Canada to be more self-sufficient and less dependent on Britain. Britain also wanted to become less involved in colonial government due to it being time-consuming and expensive. Furthermore, Britain started charging tariffs (taxes) on goods, including those from Britain, which angered British manufacturers, and support for colonies was slipping in Britain.
76
What did the ‘Little Englanders’ believe, and what change in trade policy did Britain enact regarding its colonies?
The ‘Little Englanders’ believed colonies were a huge burden on England and wanted them to pay their way and become independent. Britain was no longer showing preference to the colonies for trade.
77
What concerns did some British politicians have about British North America?
Some British politicians questioned if British North America provided anything else to the Empire other than raw materials and felt English taxes should not be sent across the ocean to support far-off lands and their causes.
78
How did the War of 1812 and the American Civil War contribute to the push for Confederation?
After the War of 1812, fear of US invasion increased, leading to the perception that a united British North America had a better chance of defending themselves. Britain supported the Southern states during the American Civil War, making British North America unpopular with the Northern states, and Canada's involvement in Southerners raiding a Northern town and escaping to Canada in 1864 was seen as hostile by the North.
79
What were the concerns in British North America after the American Civil War, and what indicated potential US expansionism?
After the North won in 1865, Canada worried about potential retaliation, leading many citizens to join militia forces. American newspapers discussed ‘Manifest Destiny’, the idea of US control over all of North America. In 1867, the US purchased Alaska, indicating their quest for land, potentially including Canadian territory, especially with the BC gold rush.
80
What specific pressure was the Red River settlement facing, and what key people were involved in the fear of US invasion?
The Red River settlement faced pressure from the US due to trade and railways. Key people involved in the context of fear of US invasion include the United States, Britain, and the Colonies.
81
How did equal representation in the Legislative Assembly lead to political deadlock, and between which groups did bitter conflicts arise?
Canada West and Canada East had equal representation in the Legislative Assembly, leading to bitter conflicts between these groups as they often took opposing sides, making decision-making difficult. The rift between English and French created years of unstable government and political deadlock.
82
What internal divisions further worsened the political situation in Canada West, and what was the consequence of this political paralysis?
A growing divide between conservatives and reformers within Canada West worsened the political situation. This made addressing the colony's needs and problems nearly impossible, and by 1859, structural change was required to break the political paralysis. Key people involved in this were Canada East, Canada West, and Britain.
83
What was the Reciprocity Treaty, and between which entities was it established?
Between 1854-1865, there was a free trade agreement between British North American colonies and the United States, known as the Reciprocity Treaty.
84
What did the Reciprocity Treaty allow, and what event brought it to an end?
This treaty allowed agricultural products and raw materials to be traded with very low taxes and tariffs. In 1865, the United States ended this free trade agreement.
85
What economic hopes did the Canadian colonies have in unifying after the end of the Reciprocity Treaty, and what economic hardships did they face?
The colonies in Canada hoped that by unifying, they could free trade amongst themselves. Many colonies depended on US trade, leading to economic hardship that hurt industries like fishing, timber, and agriculture. This economic uncertainty made Confederation more attractive, promising a larger, unified domestic market and better economic stability.
86
Why did British North America need new trade partners, and what fear was associated with the US ending the free trade agreement?
British North America needed alternative trade partners, encouraging discussions about Confederation to strengthen intercolonial trade. Some believed the US cancelled the treaty as a step toward forcing economic dependence or annexation.
87
What key people supported Confederation, and what other events highlighted the vulnerability of the colonies to American expansion?
Key people who supported Confederation include John A. Macdonald, George Brown, George-Étienne Cartier, Thomas D'Arcy McGee (Irish Immigrant and member of Legislative Assembly of the POC, and Samuel Leonard Tilley (former NB leader) The Annexation Bill (1866) and the Fenian Raids (1866–1871) also highlighted the vulnerability of the colonies to American expansion.
88
What were British North America's aims regarding Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory in the mid-1860s, and who controlled this land?
By the mid-1860s, British North America aimed to expand westward into Rupert’s Land and the North-Western Territory, which were controlled by the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC).
89
Why was the HBC willing to sell its land, and what fear motivated British North America's interest in this territory?
The fur trade was in decline, and HBC was willing to sell the land. Many in British North America feared US takeover due to Manifest Destiny, motivating their interest in acquiring the territory.
90
Which leaders saw the West as crucial, and what did Canada East and Canada West seek in these territories?
Leaders like John A. Macdonald and George Brown saw the West as key for land, settlers, and economic opportunities. Canada East and Canada West sought more land for settlement and farming.
91
How was westward expansion linked to the fear of US invasion, and what key events were associated with acquiring Rupert's Land?
Unifying could allow the colonies to act more quickly if the United States ever decided to invade again. Key events associated with acquiring Rupert's Land include the decline of the Fur Trade, Manifest Destiny, and negotiations with HBC, where Canada worked to buy Rupert’s Land instead of letting the U.S. claim it.
92
What were the intended benefits of Confederation regarding western expansion and defence, and whose rights were unfortunately ignored in this process?
Confederation would allow Canada to buy Rupert’s Land and expand westward, preventing the U.S. from taking control, and help build railways to connect eastern Canada with the West, making trade and settlement easier. A united entity would also be stronger and better able to defend itself from threats like the Fenians and the United States. However, this expansion ignored the rights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, leading to future conflicts over land and governance.
93
Of which provinces did the Dominion of Canada on July 1st, 1867 contain?
The Province of Canada; Canada West (Ontario) & Canada East (Quebec), Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
