I am writing an essay for socials and the topic is: To what extent was the treatment of First Nations by the Canadian government justified?
So far, I plan to explain both sides but lean more to the unjustified side(2 body paragraphs on that).
My points are: the treaties and other means of unfair treatment(1 para), the implementation of residential schools(1 para), and lastly to explain the positive side- the building of the CPR and Canada's emergence(3rd para). I would like some help on the positive side(3d para) but I am having trouble explaining why these series of unjust events were still somewhat worth it. How? What did all this discrepancy to the First Nations do to help Canada as a country?
What would Canada be like without these social injustices from the past? (Keep in mind I am leaning towards the, 'they could have done things in a less violent way, but they didn't'- what other ways could the Canadian govt at the time do to make their movement less harmful and fair?)
Thank you for your time.
I'm not familiar with the specifics of Canadian government actions. I assume they were quite similar to the actions of the United States government in the same situations.
Both governments could have negotiated for right of way for the railroads instead of removing the Native Americans from their lands. They could have negotiated for actual sale of land to the government or settlers from the east. Maybe you can think of other ways.
In the U.S., even treaties with Native Americans were routinely ignored or violated. Was that the case in Canada, too? If so, that was certainly unfair.
With your descriptions, yes the Canadian government was very similar to American governments.But how do they negotiate?
In your essay, you have mentioned two body paragraphs discussing the unjust treatment of First Nations by the Canadian government. You are now seeking help with the third body paragraph, which explores the positive side, specifically how these actions have helped Canada as a country. However, you also want to consider alternative approaches that the Canadian government could have taken to make its movement less harmful and fair. Additionally, you are wondering what Canada would be like without these social injustices from the past. Let's break down these points and explore potential ideas for your essay:
1. Exploring the positive side:
When discussing the positive aspects of the treatment of First Nations by the Canadian government, it's essential to remain sensitive to the topic and acknowledge that any gains Canada made should not overshadow or justify the injustices committed. With that in mind, consider the following points:
a) Economic development: You could argue that the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) and Canada's emergence as a nation brought economic benefits to the country. The infrastructure development facilitated trade, migration, and the expansion of Canadian industries. While these developments benefited Canada as a whole, it is important to note that they often came at the expense of First Nations communities.
b) National unity: Another aspect to consider is how the Canadian government's actions helped in the formation of a unified nation. By establishing control over the territories and assimilating Indigenous populations, they sought to create a more cohesive and centralized Canadian identity. Again, it is crucial to emphasize that this unity was achieved at the cost of cultural suppression and the violation of human rights.
Remember, while discussing the positive side, it's crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and reiterate that these gains were not worth the harm caused to First Nations communities.
2. Alternative approaches the Canadian government could have taken:
In your essay, you have expressed a desire to explore alternative, less harmful approaches the Canadian government could have taken. This mindset is crucial to understanding the impact of their actions and discussing how they could have been more just. Some potential ideas to consider are:
a) Negotiations and agreements: The Canadian government could have approached First Nations with more respect and recognized their sovereignty. They could have engaged in more equitable negotiations and sought to establish treaties that upheld Indigenous rights and protected their lands and culture. This could have fostered a partnership rather than a dominating relationship.
b) Focus on cultural preservation: Instead of implementing the residential school system, the Canadian government could have prioritized supporting and empowering First Nations communities in preserving their culture, language, and traditions. This approach would have respected their distinct identities and avoided the cultural assimilation that occurred.
3. Imagining a different Canada:
To conclude your essay, you can consider what Canada would be like without these social injustices from the past. This part allows you to engage in critical thinking and contemplate potential alternate scenarios:
a) Indigenous self-governance: Without the injustices committed, Canada could have recognized and respected Indigenous self-governance. This could have fostered greater autonomy and decision-making power for First Nations communities over their own lands and resources.
b) Cultural diversity and respect: A Canada without these social injustices might have embraced and celebrated the diversity of Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions. This could have led to a richer multicultural society, where Indigenous knowledge systems were valued and incorporated into Canadian society as a whole.
It is important to remember that imagining an alternate Canada is speculative, but it can serve as a thought-provoking exercise to emphasize the importance of acknowledging and rectifying historical wrongs.
Overall, your essay topic presents an opportunity to critically examine the treatment of First Nations by the Canadian government, looking at both the unjust aspects and potential alternatives. By exploring the positive side, discussing alternative approaches, and imagining a different Canada, you can provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic while maintaining a focus on justice and fairness.