Regionalism and it's Effect on a Unified Canadian Identity
1659 WordsOct 18, 20067 Pages
The concept of regionalism has been used to show the social, economic, and political
differences that exist between the regions of Canada since the days of confederation.
Historically, Canada has developed in different manners depending on the location, leaving a
region much different from another. One of the major reasons for this can be seen through the
geography of this country. The natural land forms which are present in Western Canada, such as
the prairies, are much different from say the coastal proximity, for example, of Atlantic Canada.
The climate in relation to the different geographical characteristics of Canada attributes to the
different life styles in these regions, ultimately changing their identities. This causes…show more content… Most specifically the difference would have to be the cultural
difference of language. Since the beginning of this country Quebec has fought for the
preservation of the French language and culture and thus the protection of such makes for a
different perception of Canadian identity. Every other region in Canada feels that the government
policies unequally allow Central Canada's economy, primarily Ontario's, to dominate. As the
saying goes everyone in Canada hates Ontario and everyone in Ontario hates Toronto. The
different class levels make other regions apathetic about the progress most specifically, financial
progress in Central Canada.
When analyzing the West region of Canada two groups emerge one being the Prairies of
Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan and the other being the mountainous area of British
Columbia.
The economy of the prairies includes manufacturing such as food machinery, transportation
equipment, metal products and clothing, food and chemical products, as well as the countries
largest agricultural industry including livestock and grains. Most recently the province of
Alberta's economy has seen the most growth on a percentage basis in Canada. Historically
people of this region are known as being farmers. Although there are many non-farmers in this
area, agriculture can be seen in the culture of these people. As well political