People of British North America

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary related to the people and society of British North America, focusing on demographics, migration, social roles, and life during the mid-1800s.

census

An official count of the population including information such as occupation, gender, age, religion, and ethnic origin.

gold rush

A mass movement to an area where gold has been discovered.

emigrate

To leave one's country to settle elsewhere.

Great Migration

A mass migration of people from Europe in the 1830s and 1840s due to poverty and food shortages.

Irish Famine

A period of mass starvation and disease in Ireland that led to increased emigration.

environmental disaster

A catastrophic event caused by environmental factors resulting in significant damage.

ethnic diversity

The presence of multiple ethnic groups within a population.

First Nations

Indigenous peoples in Canada, distinct from other ethnic groups.

Métis

People of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry in Canada.

British North America (BNA)

The name for Canada before it became a confederation in 1867.

Canada West

Part of present-day Ontario, historically significant in BNA.

Canada East

Part of present-day Quebec, where people of French origin were predominant.

Maritimes

A region in Canada comprising New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

population census

A systematic survey of a population's demographic information over a set period.

agricultural jobs

Work related to farming and managing crops, including planting and harvesting.

domestic chores

Household tasks typically performed at home, often divided by gender.

gender roles

Societal expectations regarding behaviors and tasks appropriate for men and women.

staple food

Essential food items that form a major part of a diet.

outdoor oven

A traditional cooking facility used outside, often for baking bread.

elementary schools

Basic educational institutions for young children.

public schooling

Government-funded education available to all children.

class divisions

Social stratification based on economic status or social standing.

socializing

Interact socially with others, often for entertainment or companionship.

mutual aid

Support and assistance provided among community members.

hand-pumped water

Water source that requires manual operation to pump water.

outhouse

A structure used as a toilet, located outside of a main building.

chamber pot

A portable toilet container, used indoors before indoor plumbing.

Roman Catholic

A branch of Christianity representing the Christian society in Canada at that time.

Protestant

A branch of Christianity that was predominantly represented in Canada West.

cultural assimilation

The process by which a minority group adopts the customs of a prevailing culture.

Roman Catholic Church

The largest Christian church, with a significant following in Canada East.

socioeconomic status

An individual's or group's economic and social position in relation to others.

workforce

The group of individuals engaged in or available for work.

trade relationships

Economic connections formed between different groups based on the exchange of goods.

settled areas

Regions where people have established communities.

survival needs

Basic requirements for living, including food, shelter, and clothing.

work ethic

A belief in hard work as a moral virtue.

historical research

The study and analysis of past events and their impact.

community ties

Social connections and relationships within a group.

cultural heritage

The traditions, customs, and artifacts passed down through generations.

agricultural practices

Beliefs and methods involved in farming and growing crops.

famine response

Actions taken by individuals or governments during times of food scarcity.

cultural identity

A sense of belonging to a particular cultural group.

urbanization

The process of increasing population in urban areas.