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Short Syllabus Description

Canada is a vast geographical expanse, a nation state, a mosaic of First Nations, a patchwork of ecosystems and climatic zones and a concept that is understood differently depending on who and where you are. Space and geography are critical components in the formation of present-day Canada. Every element of First Nations settlement, subsequent colonization and patterns of labour and resistance are influenced by the physical and human geography of this territory. In this course, we will begin to understand how this country called Canada was created beginning with the many First Nations who lived in all areas of Canada for over 14,000 years. Then we will explore the colonization process beginning in the east and moving westward, following the early hunters, fishers, fur traders and farmers. Key moments in this process include the deportation of Acadian settlers from the Maritimes, immigration of Loyalist Black settlers from the United States and mass immigration from Europe – all of which were shaped by geography.

In the mid-1800s, Confederation played a crucial role in nation building that played out differently in each region of the country. We explore those regional differences. The railways followed lock step with Confederation and led to new patterns of exploitation as well as settlement. The rapid settlement of Canada was not welcomed by all, nor was industrialization. The Métis Rebellion and the Winnipeg General Strike will be examined as instances of brave resistance. The 1930s brought a series of geographical challenges and economic shifts that affected Canada uniquely. Treaties were not static and First Nations in Canada have had to fight hard for their promised rights. These legal battles will be examined using historical and present-day examples. We will also investigate economic disparities and their relationship to physical geography across the country. Finally, the course will look ahead into the 21st century at economic changes, the potential for lifting the yoke of racism that has constrained this country and how climate change might change us as a nation.