POLS 211

What event led to the British rule over French-speaking settlers in North America?

The Seven Years War, resulting in the Treaty of Paris (1763).

What is assimilation?

The process of forcing the dominant culture on minority groups.

What is the main difference between assimilation and accommodation?

Assimilation forces the dominant culture on minorities; accommodation allows cultures to coexist respectfully.

Why were the Acadians forcibly removed from their lands by the British?

Because they refused to pledge allegiance to the Crown, which the British viewed as a threat.

What was the significance of the Articles of Capitulation?

They formalized the surrender of French forces in New France to British forces.

What did the Lord Durham Report propose?

Uniting Upper and Lower Canada to strengthen national unity.

What was the purpose of the Bi and Bi Commission?

To study the relationship between English- and French-speaking people in Canada.

What triggered Pontiac’s War?

The disrespect by the British for the autonomy of Indigenous nations.

What is the Royal Proclamation?

A document issued by the British Crown to manage newly acquired territories and establish relations with Indigenous peoples.

What was the Treaty of Niagara?

A landmark agreement solidifying peace and alliances between the British Crown and Indigenous nations after Pontiac’s War.

What are post-Confederation assimilatory policies in Canada?

Policies like the Indian Act, the residential school system, enfranchisement, and land dispossession.

What does unceded territory refer to?

Land that Indigenous peoples have never formally surrendered through treaty or other agreements.

What are the primary functions of the Cabinet in Canada?

Policy-making, decision-making, and implementing government policies.

What sparked the 2008-09 prorogation crisis in Canada?

The Governor General allowed Stephen Harper to prorogue at a time when opposition parties were threatening he would lose confidence.

What is the primary purpose of the Official Languages Act (1969)?

To make French and English the official languages of Canada and ensure equality in language rights.

What was the main argument around the Governor General's bilingualism?

The need to represent Canada's diverse population and efficiently engage in ceremonial and diplomatic duties.

What is collective responsibility in the context of Canadian government?

The convention that asserts all Cabinet members must publicly support the government’s decisions.

What does the Indian Act govern?

It governs aspects of First Nations people's lives including status, governance, and land use.

What are the goals of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada?

To address the legacy of residential schools and promote reconciliation.

What notable aspect did the 1985 amendments to the Indian Act (Bill C-31) address?

Gender discrimination regarding Indian status and community control over membership.

What was the goal of the 1969 White Paper?

To eliminate the Indian Act and integrate Indigenous peoples fully into Canadian society.

What was the Charlottetown Accord?

A proposed constitutional reform package addressing issues raised by Quebec and other provinces.

What does the notwithstanding clause in the Charter allow?

Governments can override certain Charter rights temporarily for up to five years.

What are the four pillars of the Canadian electoral system?

Fair representation, integrity, transparency, and accessibility.

What does reconciliation in Canada aim to achieve?

To heal historical injustices, foster mutual understanding, and address colonial legacies.

Why is judicial independence significant?

It ensures that the judiciary operates free from political influence.

What arguments are made for and against using the notwithstanding clause?

For: it safeguards democratic decisions. Against: it may undermine the protection of fundamental rights.

What does Quebec nationalism emphasize?

Preserving Quebec’s distinct language, culture, and identity while seeking autonomy within Canada.