Canada's Role in Ww2

Canada’s Role in World War Two
The second World War played a significant role in creating Canada a National Identity.. They declared war against Germany on September 10th, 1939 after Germany had invaded Poland without any warning. By the evening of September 3rd, Britain and France were at war with Germany and within a week, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and South Africa had already joined the war. This was important because it was our country’s first declaration of war. Canada had sent more than 1.1 million people over to war with 45, 000 deaths and costing about $271, 86,077,519.12 between 1939 and 1945. “Canada's role became one of defence of the British Isles.” ¹ The war had significant cultural, political and economic effects on Canada, including the conscription crisis which affected unity between the French and English speaking people in Canada. However, the war effort not only strengthened the Canadian economy but further established Canada as a major actor on the world stage. The war lasted for six long and bloody years. The war ended by the capture of Berlin by Soviet and Polish troops and the surrender of Germany on May 8, 1945. By the end of the war, Canada had the third largest navy in the world and was viewed differently by other countries. They were very helpful with providing their allies with what they needed during the war and were greatly appreciated by all. Canada’s role in the war also affected things back at home. Women’s rights were enhanced and they effectively ran the factories while the men were at battle, it ended the great depression and boosted the economy.