another same paragraph question.
In the early months of the war, Mackenzie King hoped that Canada's contribution to the war effort would remain as much as possible at home. This way, the issue of conscription could be avoided. The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan seemed to offer Canada this possibility. In Dec. 1939, Canada agreed to host and administer a training plan in which British instructors would train pilots and other flight personnel from all over the Commonwealth in Canada. Canada's open skies, its climate, and its distance from enemy aircraft made it an ideal training location. Air fields were built on the Prairies and in other locations near small towns and villages, and old aircraft were refitted and returned to service. The program was a major Canadian contribution to the war effort. The BCATP trained over 130 000 pilots, navigators, flight engineers, and ground staff.
Question
What was the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan? Why was Canada chosen to host it? Why did Mackenzie King support the plan?
The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan was a training plan in which British instructors would train pilots and other flight personnel from all over the Commonwealth in Canada. This program was a major Canadian contribution to war effort. It was an offer that Canada chose to host, Canada's open skies, its climate, and its distance from enemy aircraft made it an ideal training location. Mackenzie King supported the plan because he wanted to put a lot of Contribution into the war and that way conscription could be avoided, and this was the best opportunity for him.
Canada was chosen to host this training because it was far from Germany and had a lot of air space and land for airfields.
thank you ms. sue very much
The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP) was a training program established during World War II, in which British instructors trained pilots and other flight personnel from various countries in the Commonwealth. The program aimed to provide trained aircrew members to support the war effort.
Canada was chosen to host the BCATP for several reasons. Firstly, Canada had vast open skies, which provided ample space for training flights. This was essential as it allowed trainees to practice flying maneuvers and engage in aerial combat simulations without the risk of overcrowding or colliding with other aircraft.
Secondly, Canada's climate played a significant role in its selection as a host. The country's relatively mild weather conditions, particularly in comparison to the harsh winters of the United Kingdom, allowed for year-round training without substantial interruptions. This was crucial for ensuring a steady flow of trained personnel to support the war effort.
Lastly, Canada's geographical position offered a distinct advantage. The country was far from the front lines of the war, which made it relatively safe from enemy attacks. This security allowed trainees to focus on acquiring the necessary skills without the constant threat of combat.
Mackenzie King, the Prime Minister of Canada at the time, supported the plan for multiple reasons. Firstly, hosting the BCATP provided Canada with an opportunity to contribute significantly to the war effort without resorting to conscription. Mackenzie King was a staunch opponent of conscription, as he wanted to avoid creating divisions and animosity within Canadian society over the issue. By offering to host the training program, Canada could demonstrate its commitment to the war without forcibly requiring its citizens to serve in the military.
Additionally, the BCATP offered economic benefits for Canada. The establishment of airfields and training facilities across the country created jobs and stimulated local economies, particularly in small towns and villages near the training locations. This economic boost helped alleviate the struggles of the Great Depression, which still lingered in many regions of Canada at that time.
In summary, the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan was a training program in Canada where British instructors trained pilots and flight personnel. Canada was chosen to host the program due to its open skies, favorable climate, and distance from enemy aircraft. Mackenzie King supported the plan because it allowed Canada to make a significant contribution to the war effort without resorting to conscription and provided economic benefits for the country.