Canada in World War II · Term 2

The Holocaust & Canada's Response

Examining Canada's response to the Holocaust, including the 'None is Too Many' policy regarding Jewish refugees.

About This Topic

The end of World War II marked the beginning of a new era for Canada, both domestically and internationally. This topic explores the lasting impact of the war, including the creation of a more robust 'social safety net' as the government sought to prevent a return to the poverty of the 1930s. Students examine the introduction of the welfare state, with programs like family allowances and improved veterans' benefits, which fundamentally changed the relationship between the state and its citizens.

Internationally, the war cemented Canada's status as a 'middle power.' Students investigate Canada's role as a founding member of the United Nations and its contribution to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, led by Canadian John Humphrey. This is a key part of the Ontario curriculum, focusing on the continuity and change in Canada's identity and global role. This topic benefits from collaborative investigations into post-war policies and structured discussions about Canada's international responsibilities. Students grasp the significance of these changes faster through peer-led analysis of how the war's legacy continues to shape Canada today.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle: The Birth of the Welfare State

In small groups, students compare the government's role in the 1930s with its role in the late 1940s. They identify the new social programs introduced after the war and discuss how these were intended to provide security for all Canadians.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

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Simulation Game: Founding the United Nations

Students act as delegates to the 1945 San Francisco Conference. They must debate the goals of the new organization and Canada's specific interests as a 'middle power' that wanted to ensure the voices of smaller nations were heard.

⏱ 50 min·Whole Class

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Think-Pair-Share: John Humphrey and Human Rights

Students read about John Humphrey's role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They discuss with a partner why it was significant for a Canadian to be at the center of this global effort and how it reflects Canada's post-war values.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

The welfare state was created all at once in 1945.

What to Teach Instead

While the war was a major catalyst, the welfare state was built gradually over several decades, starting with unemployment insurance in 1940. A 'building blocks' activity helps students see the incremental nature of these social reforms.

Common Misconception

Canada's role in the UN was just to follow the 'Big Powers.'

What to Teach Instead

Canada often acted as a mediator and was a strong advocate for the rights of middle and smaller powers. Peer discussion about 'middle power diplomacy' helps students understand Canada's unique and active role in international organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did WWII lead to the creation of the welfare state in Canada?

The war showed that the government could successfully manage the economy and provide for the people on a massive scale. To prevent a post-war depression and to reward the sacrifices of the people, the government introduced new social programs like family allowances and expanded health and housing support.

What was Canada's role in founding the United Nations?

Canada was a founding member of the UN in 1945. Canadian diplomats worked hard to ensure that 'middle powers' like Canada had a meaningful voice in the organization, rather than it being entirely dominated by the five major powers.

Who was John Humphrey?

John Humphrey was a Canadian legal scholar and diplomat who wrote the first draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. His work laid the foundation for modern international human rights law and is a major point of pride in Canadian history.

How can active learning help students understand the legacy of WWII?

Active learning strategies, such as simulating the UN founding and investigating the welfare state, help students understand the systemic and global changes of the post-war era. By engaging with the decisions that shaped modern Canada, students move beyond seeing history as just the past to seeing it as the foundation of their own society. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of citizenship and Canada's role in the world.

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