IB History of the Americas 7.6 notes

7.6 The Cold War in Canada and Cuba

Canada’s Role in the Cold War

• Canada's role was often simplified, primarily focusing on self-protection through strategic alliances with the USA.

• Key components included:

  • NATO membership

  • Participation in the Korean War

  • Agreement to NORAD

• Critics argue that Canada was merely following US policy, but this overlooks:

  • Canada's ambivalent relationship with the USA

  • Commonwealth membership

  • Commitment to the UN and humanitarian efforts

• Disagreements existed between Canada and the USA, notably on Cuba and Vietnam.

• Between 1945 and 1981, Canada had six prime ministers with varying agendas and a developing national identity affected by social changes due to the Cold War.

The Gouzenko Affair and the Origins of the Cold War

• Some historians claim the Cold War began on September 5, 1945, in Ottawa, when Igor Gouzenko, a Soviet embassy employee, defected and revealed a Soviet spy ring in Canada.

• Gouzenko's revelations led to increased security measures within Canada and significant public opinion shifts against the Soviet Union, resulting in the 'Red Scare'.

• Canadian anti-communist hysteria, while not as extreme as in the USA, influenced popular culture and society.

• Canada increased military spending and expanded its armed forces during this time.

Canada's Response to Global Conflicts

• Active UN membership and commitment to international organizations to prevent future conflicts.

• Canadian troops were sent to the Korean War, with debates about military tactics leading to increased military professionalism.

• The Suez Crisis in 1956 showcased Canada’s diplomatic efforts, leading to the establishment of UN peacekeeping forces, gaining Pearson a Nobel Peace Prize.

• Under Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, Canada accepted NORAD and US-made conventional missiles, stirring controversy over nuclear weapons on Canadian soil.

Influence of the Cuban Revolution

• In 1959, after Castro's rise to power, Canada seized trade opportunities presented by US embargoes against Cuba.

• During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, Parliament debated responding to US requests to alert Canadian forces but maintained independence by not joining the OAS.

• Castro's government actively supported revolutionary movements in other countries, influenced by Che Guevara’s vision.

• Cuba was later expelled from the OAS in 1962 for its government’s incompatibility with OAS goals, but in the 1970s, countries within OAS began to restore relations with Cuba.

• Cuba’s involvement in the Non-Aligned Movement reflected attempts to distance itself from US domination.

Jamaican Cold War Policies

• Jamaica's relationship with the USA shifted with Prime Minister Michael Manley's administration (1972-1980) as he pursued socio-economic reforms and sought ties with Cuba.

• USA increased covert actions to ensure Jamaica's adherence to US policies, including alleged funding of political violence.

Conclusion

• The USA dominated Cold War foreign policy in the region, leading to uncomfortable alliances with dictators.

• Canada, while closely aligned with the USA, maintained an independent foreign policy and engaged in peacekeeping efforts.

• By the 1980s, Canada had developed its own identity and foreign policy aimed at security, economic growth, and international development, distinct yet aligned with the USA.