Regionalism and it's Effect on a Unified Canadian Identity

1659 Words7 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
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