explain why the issue of conscription helped to further divide English and French relations in Canada.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conscription_Crisis_of_1917
http://www.cbc.ca/history/EPISCONTENTSE1EP12CH2PA3LE.html
http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/articles/conscription
The issue of conscription played a significant role in further dividing English and French relations in Canada during certain periods, such as World War I and World War II. Conscription, or compulsory military service, is a complex and controversial topic that can stir strong emotions and create divisions among different segments of society. Let's explore how this issue escalated tensions between the English and French communities in Canada and why it has caused division.
1. Historical Context:
To understand the division caused by conscription, it's important to consider the historical context. Canada has a long history of linguistic and cultural differences between its English-speaking and French-speaking populations. These differences were exemplified by the creation of Quebec, the province with a predominantly French-speaking population.
2. World War I:
During World War I, the issue of conscription arose in Canada. The English-speaking majority generally supported the idea, as they felt it was their duty to contribute to the war effort. However, the French-speaking population, particularly in Quebec, was largely against conscription. This opposition arose for several reasons:
a) Cultural and linguistic preservation: French Canadians considered their distinct culture and language to be important aspects of their identity. They believed that conscription would disproportionately affect their community, potentially resulting in the loss of their language and culture.
b) Regionalism concerns: Many French Canadians in Quebec felt a strong regional identity and were skeptical of being compelled to fight in conflicts that they saw as being disconnected from their local interests.
3. Conscription Crisis of 1917:
The implementation of conscription during World War I resulted in a significant political crisis known as the "Conscription Crisis of 1917." English Canada, led by Prime Minister Robert Borden, strongly supported conscription, while French Canada, led by Henri Bourassa and Wilfrid Laurier, opposed it. This disagreement created deep divisions and sparked tensions between the English and French communities.
4. World War II:
Similar to World War I, conscription became an issue during World War II. Once again, the English-speaking majority largely supported conscription, whereas French Canadians were more resistant, mainly due to the memory of the previous conscription crisis and concerns about their cultural preservation.
5. Impact on English-French Relations:
The issue of conscription exacerbated existing divisions between English and French Canadians. It highlighted the cultural and linguistic divide, amplified feelings of mistrust, and reinforced the perception that the interests of French-speaking Canadians were being neglected or overlooked by the English-speaking majority. The conscription crises strained intercommunity relations and deepened the divide between English and French Canadians.
In conclusion, conscription, due to its implications on cultural preservation, regionalism, and previous historical differences, contributed to the further division of English and French relations in Canada. The issue highlighted the contrasting viewpoints and interests between the two linguistic communities and created lasting divisions that continue to shape Canadian society today.