GOVERNING CANADA

ll Canadians, simply by being born in Canada or by coming here to live, inherit a rich legacy of political institutions and practices. This theme recognizes the sites, people and events that form this legacy. It includes Aboriginal governments, the clash of European empires on what is now Canadian soil, movements for political rights, Canada's relations with the rest of the world in war and peace and the implanting of representative institutions.

Coteau-du-lac, Quebec 18th Century Transporation and Defence Structures Sir George-Étienne Cartier, Quebec 1830s Double House of Prominent Politician

Two of the earliest preoccupations of the system of National Historic Sites of Canada were the imperial contest between France and Britain in North America and the struggle to keep the northern half of the continent independent of the United States. These events, including the War of 1812, are commemorated extensively across central and eastern Canada. Forts, both as a political and a military presence in early colonial times, are well represented in the system. The making of Confederation, the careers of Prime Ministers, and the process, since 1870, of bringing the West into Confederation and negotiating treaties with First Nations are also incorporated in this theme. Across the country, the physical heritage includes town halls, court houses, customs houses and Mounted Police posts. In the last century, Canadians' awareness of their place in the world has grown, as has a sense of international responsibility. We have fought abroad in both World Wars while implementing difficult changes at home to strengthen the war effort. Some of these matters and the geopolitical concerns that emerged after 1945 have been commemorated, but more remains to be done.

Fort Malden, Ontario 19th Century Border Fortification Diefenbunker/ Central Emergency Government Headquarters, Ontario Cold War Bunker

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National Historic Sites Of Canada System Plan

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