Canada’s Government PPT Notes
Canada’s Independence
Mid 1860s Dominion of Canada
–Allowed areas to have their own parliament and prime minister
–Not allowed to make treaties with other countries
1931 gained Independence from Great Britain
1982 final links were broken
Canada gained their independence through peaceful means
European Influence
Language
–English and French both official languages
Religion
–Catholic (mainly the French)
–Protetants (Non-Catholic Christians)
- Mainly the English
Canada Today –Quebec
Separatists
People who believe that they cannot keep their French language and culture and remain an part of Canada.
Voted numerous times and have decided to remain a part of Canada
Still a push to become independent
Canada has made English and French the official language
Also encourages the preservation of one’s culture
Pro Quebec Independence
Official language is French
All documents, road signs, building signs are written in French
We are different from every other providence…we are FRENCH
Main religion is Roman Catholic
If English becomes the official language throughout Canada we will loose our heritage
Anti Quebec Independence
Already granted them their own unique language
Declared that Canada has two official languages – English and French
All documents are written in French and English everywhere else…why not in Quebec
Very frustrating for the citizens of Canada who live in English speaking providences to drive through Quebec
Constitutional Monarchy
Constitution describes how the government is organized
Monarch is head of state (king or queen)
Monarch selects a governor-general to represent them in Canada...ceremonial job with very little power
Parliamentary Democracy
3 branches of government:
–Executive – enforces the laws (monarch, prime minister, and his cabinet)
–Judicial-interprets the laws (courts)
–Legislative-makes the laws (Parliament which is a Senate and House of Commons)
Citizens elect members of parliament (called MPs)
Parliament is made up of the House of Commons and Senate
Parliament elects the prime minister and they can also replace the prime minister if he/she is not doing a good job
Prime Minister heads the day to day activities of the government
Federal Government
Power is divided between the national and local governments
National capital is Ottawa
National government handles national defense and trade
Provincial government (10 provinces) handles local issues
Provinces can elect their own leaders and write their own laws
Each province elects a premier as their leader
Citizen’s Rights
Citizens 18 or older can vote
A level of personal freedom that is among the highest in the world
Property rights protected by laws