European Immigrants
Canada was discovered by European explorers in 1497, in search of new lands to conquer and from which to benefit economically. Europeans are famous for colonising continents that could supply them with greater economic wealth, the ethos of capitalism; for example: India, Africa and America. Canada offered a perfect opportunity for Europeans to make money; through the exploitation of the Canadian Beaver. It was not until the beginning of World War 2, that Canada again saw a huge influx of immigrants from Europe; who wished to escape the horrors of the developing war. This increase in Europeans only served to further divide the French and English speaking territories, with other nationalities such as Italians and Germans joining the mix through the ages. Evidence therefore points to the inevitable, a repeat of failed European multiculturalism.
|
The French and British had a huge influence on Canada, as they made up the largest proportion of the population and over time forged the Canada that we see today. Rivalry between the two is a notably large political catalyst within Canada, which has caused considerable unrest and disagreement through the years. In the words of Gordon Peckover: ‘Quebec vs. the rest of Canada’[1]. The Quebecois seek to break the union of Canada’s English and French speaking provinces and territories. This raises the question as to whether there is unity within Canada; Peckover advises that a ‘bridge’[2] must be built to heal that divide. Therefore unity in Canada could be questionable, because of British-French rivalry and the consequences it has for the rest of the nation seems inescapable.
|
One should also consider how European immigrants have viewed 21st C Canadian society upon arrival today. There are examples suggesting that unity is ensured through polite manners and knowledge of the world outside Canada. Canadians are known to accept immigrants in a polite way; especially when they embrace their new home. June Spindloe, a British photographer and correspondent for the British tabloid Canada News refers to the ‘British [as] arrogant [and] the courtesy of Canadian society…to be overwhelming’[3], this ‘courtesy’41 on the part of the Canadians shows a general natural inclination to accept all ethnic groups with open arms; regardless of race colour, religion, beliefs or culture. Dr. Luli Rraffshi, another immigrant who originated from Europe, indicates a similar feeling towards Canadian manners: ‘Canadian hospitality [is] overwhelming’[4]. This general consensus of manners being one of Canada’s greatest attributes, reflects the nation’s encouragement and acceptance of all, which should therefore reinforce unity throughout such a large country.
[1] Gordon Peckover, Personal Communication, 14th till 26th August 2012.
[2] Gordon Peckover, Personal Communication, 14th till 26th August 2012.
[3] Robin Arthur and Sam Bayat, Canada’s Immigrants, Heroes and Countrymen, Touch BASE, 2001, p122.
[4] Robin Arthur and Sam Bayat, Canada’s Immigrants, Heroes and Countrymen, Touch BASE, 2001, p139.
[2] Gordon Peckover, Personal Communication, 14th till 26th August 2012.
[3] Robin Arthur and Sam Bayat, Canada’s Immigrants, Heroes and Countrymen, Touch BASE, 2001, p122.
[4] Robin Arthur and Sam Bayat, Canada’s Immigrants, Heroes and Countrymen, Touch BASE, 2001, p139.