The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was the catalyst of a four-year-long global conflict, which is known as World War I.[1] The First World War resulted in senseless deaths and destruction of many nations and societies. This war began in 1914 and ended in 1918, and many countries were immersed. It was estimated around 650,000 Canadians participated in the battle, and of those, 66,000 died, and 172,000 were wounded. [2] Not to mention, it was estimated that over 2,800 Canadian women partook in war work. [3] Twenty-five years after WWI, the Second World War took place. This six-year global battle began in 1939 and ended in 1945, and it was estimated that 1,159,000 Canadian men and women served, and 44,090 died. [4]
The First World War and Second World war are valuable pieces of history that moved many and continues to do so through the recognition of adversities faced by soldiers and their patriotism. However, historical narratives often overlook the female perspective in war efforts and are commonly portrayed through the male lens. Canadian women were involved in the conflict from their home country and overseas next to the frontlines, and many contributed and faced tribulations because of war. Most of the Canadian Army Medical Corps were made up of women, and without their active participation, many more would have died on battlefields. Women who served and died in WWI and WWII acted on the grounds of patriotism, and their experience was just as horrific as those serving on the frontlines. The wars redefined societal roles, and women were stepping foot into labour work, the Canadian Army Medical Corps and managing households as single providers. Not to mention the extraordinary women who used their talents and determination to achieve unprecedented milestones by earning roles in aviation, engineering, and nursing. And despite societal barriers, Indigenous and disabled Canadian women significant contributions to the war effort by breaking through stereotypes and demonstrating their skills throughout the wars. The harsh realities of global war have shed light on their resilience and resourcefulness. This museum exhibit will highlight their untold narratives and the multifaced perspectives of Canadian women in WWI and WWII through historical artifacts, newspaper clippings, and photographs.
Bibliography
[1] Canada, Veterans Affairs. “First World War (1914 – 1918) - Veterans Affairs Canada.” (1914 – 1918) - Veterans Affairs Canada, March 6, 2024. https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/wars-and-conflicts/first-world-war.
[2] Ibid.
[3] “Women in the Canadian Military.” Women in the Canadian Military | Learn | Canadian War Museum. Accessed October 23, 2024. https://www.warmuseum.ca/learn/women-in-the-canadian-military/#:~:text=During%20the%20First%20World%20War,in%20the%20First%20World%20War.
[4] Canada, Library and Archives. “Service Files of the Second World War - War Dead, 1939-1947.” Library and Archives Canada, October 18, 2022. https://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/discover/military-heritage/second-world-war/second-world-war-dead-1939-1947/Pages/files-second-war-dead.aspx.