I have an upcoming debate about the Canadian Confederation. I'm on the side of Newfound land and I'm stating why I should join the Confederation.
- It will get more money since Britain won't longer carry the costs
- Canada promised Newfoundland railways and roads
- Stronger military
- Stronger economy for people of Newfoundland
What are other reasons why they joined? Or why they wouldn't?
I'm not quite fully understanding the whole Confederation thing. Help!
Certainly! I can help you understand the reasons why Newfoundland joined the Canadian Confederation and explore other possible reasons as well.
To grasp the concept of Canadian Confederation, it is important to know that Newfoundland, like other British colonies in North America, had the choice to join together and form a larger, unified country known as Canada. This process took place in 1867, and Newfoundland would eventually join the Confederation in 1949. Now, let's look at some additional reasons why Newfoundland might have chosen to join the Canadian Confederation:
1. Protection and security: Joining Canada would offer Newfoundland access to a stronger military and defense system. As an individual colony, Newfoundland might have felt vulnerable to potential threats from other nations, and joining Confederation would provide the benefit of a collective defense system.
2. Improved trade and economic opportunities: As part of Canada, Newfoundland could benefit from a larger market and increased trade opportunities. By being incorporated into a larger economic entity, Newfoundland's businesses and industries could potentially expand and prosper.
3. Infrastructure development: Along with the promise of railways and roads, joining the Confederation would likely mean access to more extensive infrastructure development. Canada, as a larger country, could allocate resources to improve Newfoundland's transportation systems, which would facilitate trade and economic growth.
4. Political stability and representation: By joining Canada, Newfoundland would become part of a federal parliamentary system. This would ensure a more stable government structure and provide opportunities for Newfoundland to have representation in the national legislative body, which could potentially give them a stronger political voice.
Now, it's important to consider potential reasons why Newfoundland may have been hesitant to join Confederation:
1. Loss of autonomy: Joining Canada would mean surrendering some degree of political independence and decision-making power to the federal government. Newfoundland might have been concerned about potential interference or limitations on its ability to govern itself.
2. Economic uncertainties: While joining Canada could bring economic benefits, there might have been concerns about potential challenges and adjustments during the transition period. Newfoundland's economic landscape could have been different from other provinces, and some locals might have feared adverse effects on their industries or livelihoods.
3. Cultural identity: Newfoundland has a unique cultural heritage and distinct traditions. Some individuals might have worried that joining Confederation would dilute or overshadow Newfoundland's distinct cultural identity.
It's important to note that these mentioned reasons are not exhaustive, and there might be other factors specific to Newfoundland's history and context that influenced their decision to join or not join the Canadian Confederation.