Documenting Canada: A History of Modern Canada in Documents

by Dave De Brou, Bill Waiser

Documenting Canada had its beginnings in the summer of 1990 when the country faced a seemingly endless string of problems and controversies. It was readily apparent from the level of public discussion during our long summer of discontent that the historical background to many contemporary issues was little understood. This collection of 212 documents relating to the economic, social, cultural, and political development of Canada is intended to encourage a deeper appreciation and understanding of Canada's distinct history, and to illustrate how the country has evolved in response to different challenges and events. The first book of its kind in twenty years, Documenting Canada reproduces the most significant federal documents in Canadian history from 1867 to 1991, bringing together in a single volume important laws, judicial rulings, agreements, Orders in Council, and treaties that have been essential to the development of our country since Confederation. Specific emphasis is placed on documents relevant to such contemporary issues as English-French relations, Native concerns, federal-provincial powers, cultural affairs, gender issues, and environmental matters. Reproduced in whole or in part, the documents are organized chronologically and each is accompanied by an introductory note explaining its historical context and significance. A cross-referenced index allows readers to identify related documents within the book. Documenting Canada is an indispensable reference tool for students, scholars, researchers, journalists, other professionals, and Canadians in all walks of life.

702 pages, Paperback

First published July 15, 1992