Artifact 5: Borden's Strength with Britain

This section from Robert Borden’s account of the achievements of the government showcases his dedication to Britain and the strength of his leadership during The Great War. In this section from Robert Borden, it is clear that he wants to progress Canada forward and create a uniquely Canadian identity. By writing, “Canada will not be an ‘adjunct’ even of the British Empire,” it illustrates his desire to be able to convey a Canadian perspective that may or may not be different from Britain. He writes that “we must creep before we walk” which highlights the fact that Borden believes that the autonomy of Canada would continue over a period of time, rather than being a drastic or instantaneous change. This is supported through much of the legislation and foreign policy that Borden engaged with over his prime-ministership. Under his government, Borden was able to further solidify Canadian autonomy through sending delegates to the Paris Peace Conference in 1919 and arguing for Canada to sign the Versailles Treaty themselves rather than Britain signing for them. These examples showcase the strength in Borden’s government to increase the autonomy of Canada by growing closer to Britain through work in the Imperial War Conferences and by increasing the power of Canada economically and socially. It is clear, through this section in Borden’s writing, that Canada would slowly become more independent and would continue to create a uniquely Canadian identity that would last for years to come.

Bibliography:

English, J. (2021). Wartime Elections Act. In The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/wartime-elections-act