Canada-US Trade: Economic Strength in Numbers

The American identity is inextricably linked to its history; as a result, Americans believe that all citizens, whether born or naturalized, should have at least a rudimentary understanding of their country's past. President Kennedy emphasized the need of knowing one's country's history and traditions. Without such understanding, he stands uncertain and defenseless in front of the world, not knowing where he came from or where he is going..." The purpose of this section was to look at three elements related to American citizens: citizenship, immigration, and education throughout the country's history. The goal was to gain a knowledge of how the United States helps immigrants connect with and build an American identity. Since 1776, the United States has relied on immigration to increase its population and strengthen its economy. However, there is sometimes concern that significant volumes of immigration to a country will introduce too many cultural variations and ideas; this infusion of increasing variety has the ability to either strengthen or weaken a nation's identity. It is widely acknowledged that increasing immigration benefits a country. How does this alter the fundamental components of the American identity? It does not. 

The American identity is being preserved by educating both immigrants and citizens 

about the country's past. As stated at the beginning of this chapter, the development of the United States' identity began long before the American Revolution and Declaration of Independence. The belief that "all men are created equal" and the "right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" has emerged as a crucial component of American identity. These have remained unchanged since the drafting of the Declaration of Independence until today. These facts are ingrained in the American identity and are beliefs that Americans hold onto. Their primary political documents all convey the same basic messages to American citizens; the wars they have fought have either been to achieve, maintain, or defend these rights; and their citizens are expected to not only adopt but also learn and be loyal to the American identity. The creation of the American identity began on this route when the country went to war with the British Empire for its citizens' rights. This unwavering concept that "all men are created equal" and the "right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" was set in motion by an indifferent and cruel British Empire that took the colonies of America for granted. The ideals of American identity were created at that period and are still relevant now. This now leads to the development of Canada's identity and the investigation of why it formed such a distinct identity from that of the United States. 

On July 1, 1867, the Dominion of Canada was established

The new republic had around 3.3 million citizens, with Protestants and Catholics split 60/40. Canada's identity did not emerge at Confederation; like that of the United States, it began to evolve long before it officially broke from the British Empire. The eventual secession of Canada from Britain followed hundreds of years of close ties between the Empire and its colony. The increasing independence from Britain is an important aspect in the formation of its national identity. Although various elements have contributed to the creation of Canada's identity, this part will cover the same ground as the evolution of American identity, with one important exception: the contributions of French Canadians. The following major documents in Canadian history will be examined: the Constitution Act of 1967, the Constitution Act of 1982, and the Canadian Bill of Rights. The second factor to be examined is the Quebec factor. This section will focus on the key influences that the French have had on the development of Canadian identity, specifically the impact following the British victory over the French in North America, ideological differences regarding Canada's conflicts, and current issues. 

The next issue to be addressed is Canada's history of conflict

This section will focus on Canada's expeditionary involvement in battle, as well as its reliance on partnerships with Britain, the United Nations, and military alliances. The final component to be addressed in the formation of Canada's identity is Canadian citizenship, immigration, and education. Although these are far from the only aspects to examine in the creation of Canadian identity, they are four major factors that serve as a foundation for how the country's identity has evolved. Confederation has had some influence on Canada's national identity. Images of the Fathers of Confederation discussing the intricacies of the Constitution Act in Charlottetown and Quebec helped shape Canadian identity. The Constitution Act serves as the foundation for both the Canadian Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Although these crucial texts play an important role in defining Canadian identity, they are mostly unknown and are not regarded as essential components of the country's identity. Although other countries have similar documents. Canada's key papers were created not via revolution or war, but by evolution and convenience. As a result, the documents appear to be a necessary step toward independence rather than a real yearning for sovereignty. Confederation lacked unanimity, as evidenced by a review of the Constitution Act of 1867.