Canadian History Essay Problem
The Final Exam for HIST 136 consists entirely of a single essay question that you need to answer in full. You will not be able to "cut and paste" your answer onto the answer field on Moodle so it is important that you have a detailed outline ready so that you can type your answer within the 1 hour limit.
A study hint: I would encourage you to construct outlines for each of the essays below that include a detailed thesis (a specific response to each of the questions) and specific evidence that you will use to back up your argument(s). In other words, before you receive the exam you should already have a well-thought-out thesis (what you are going to argue and how you will argue it) and having a rough outline, as these will bring coherence to your thoughts for each question. You should make specific references to historical events, places and people throughout the essay as a way of providing evidence for your arguments. In your answer, you must reference the lectures, videos and readings, and at least 2 GCMs as sources of information from over the entire course. Finally, you have a chance to wax philosophical in your conclusion so do take the opportunity to state some of your poignant observations making sure that they follow from the rest of the discussion in your essay. Outstanding answers will illustrate an understanding of the function of history in the Canadian narrative and interact with the idea of a relational past. Because you have the questions ahead of time, it is my expectation that your answer will be sophisticated and nuanced. READ THE QUESTIONS CAREFULLY! I am not looking to trick you or to find out what you don't know; I am interested in understanding what you have learned about "All My Relations" after Confederation.
• It has often been claimed that Canada is a country without an established, independent character. Do you agree or disagree? If you agree, define a "positive" identity for Canada using specific examples from Canadian history. If you disagree make clear how the evidence supports the view that Canada's dependence on other nations (say Great Britain or US) has comprised or compromised its identity since 1867. Conclude by discussing Canada's future options regarding its relations within and outside of North America.
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.