Compare and contrast how the united states and canada achieved independence
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Contrast the gaining of independence of both Canada and the United States
To compare and contrast how the United States and Canada achieved independence, we will look at the historical events and factors that shaped their paths to independence.
1. United States Independence:
a. American Revolution: The United States' path to independence began with the American Revolution (1775-1783). The colonies, dissatisfied with British rule, fought for their independence, leading to the formation of the United States of America.
b. Declaration of Independence: On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, which declared the United States' separation from Britain and emphasized principles of liberty and self-governance.
c. Revolutionary War: The Revolutionary War was fought against the British forces, with assistance from France and other European powers. It culminated in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, officially recognizing the United States as an independent nation.
2. Canadian Independence:
a. Dominion of Canada: Unlike the American colonies, Canada evolved into a dominion within the British Empire. In 1867, the Dominion of Canada was established through the British North America Act, which united four provinces (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia).
b. Confederation: The Confederation of Canada in 1867 allowed for the expansion and inclusion of more provinces and territories, as each sought to protect their regional interests while forming a unified country.
c. Evolution of Dominion Status: Over the next several decades, Canada gradually gained more autonomy from Britain. It acquired control over domestic governance, established its own military, and eventually gained the right to amend its own constitution.
d. Complete Independence: Finally, in 1982, the Canadian Constitution was patriated, meaning it was brought under Canadian control, without requiring approval from the British Parliament. This event marked Canada's complete independence from Britain.
To clarify, the United States' independence resulted from a revolutionary war fought against British forces, culminating in the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. In contrast, Canada's path was through peaceful negotiations, as it transitioned from being a British colony to a self-governing dominion within the British Empire, and eventually gained complete independence through constitutional reforms.