Introduction
The city of Montreal, the heart of Quebec, has always been an integral part of Canada. Its role in the historical formation of the Dominion of Canada is significant. This article explores the historical intricacies that led to Quebec's inclusion in Confederation, focusing on the evolution of Quebec's relationship with Canada.
Quebec's Historical Context
Montreal, Quebec's capital, has a long and rich history that intertwines with the broader narrative of Canadian Confederation. Originally incorporated as a city in 1832 with a population of 170,469, Montreal has grown to become Canada's second-largest city, home to approximately 1.6 million people as of 2011.
Province-wise, Montreal was part of the Province of Lower Canada, followed by the Province of Canada, and eventually became part of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. This transition marked a significant moment in the country's history, setting the stage for the modern Canada we know today.
The Formation of the Dominion of Canada
On July 1, 1867, the Dominion of Canada was formed through the Federal Union of several provinces. The new polity, officially known as the "Dominion of Canada," was a result of the union of four provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec.
Initially, the term "Canada" referred to what is now known as Quebec. In 1535, Jacques Cartier used the indigenous word "kanata" to describe the territory he explored, which eventually expanded to encompass the present-day Canada. By the early 1790s, Canada was further divided into "Upper Canada" and "Lower Canada," with "Upper Canada" becoming Ontario and "Lower Canada" becoming Quebec.
The Role of Quebec
Contrary to popular belief, Quebec has never been a late addition to the Canadian Confederation. On the contrary, Quebec was the original Canada. From the very first day in 1535, the term "kanata" specifically referred to Quebec. The modern-day confederation process was more about expanding and refining the existing Canada, rather than Quebec joining something new.
When the Province of Canada was formed in 1841, it was a federation of Upper and Lower Canada, with Quebec taking on this name. The split in 1867, when Quebec and Ontario were formed from the Province of Canada, did not mean Quebec was joining Confederation, but rather that the existing Quebec was being recognized as a distinct, vital part of the new polity.
Conclusion
The historical journey of Quebec to the formation of the Dominion of Canada is a fascinating story of evolution and integration. Understanding this historical context helps us appreciate the deep-seated relationship between Quebec and Canada. Quebec, from its earliest days, has been an integral and essential part of what we now call Canada.
The Dominion of Canada was not an act of Quebec joining something new, but an act of recognition and inclusion. This historical understanding provides insights into the unique place of Quebec in the Canadian Confederation, emphasizing its fundamental role in the formation of the modern nation.