Modern Canada
In the decades since the Second World War, Canada has grown into a prosperous, modern and diverse country. New national symbols, official bilingualism and a patriated Constitution have shaped the Canada of today.
Postwar growth and a new identity
After the Second World War, Canada enjoyed a long period of prosperity. The standard of living rose, social programs expanded, and millions of immigrants helped build a modern industrial economy. Canada also took on a growing role in the world, helping to found the United Nations and NATO and contributing to peacekeeping missions abroad.
The Maple Leaf flag
In 1965, Canada adopted a new national flag, the red and white maple leaf flag. The colours red and white were Canada's official colours since 1921, approved by King George V. The maple leaf has been a symbol of Canada since the 18th century and now appears at the centre of the flag.
Official bilingualism
In 1969, the Official Languages Act made French and English the two official languages of Canada. The Act guarantees that federal government services are available in both languages across the country, and it reflects the partnership of the two founding language groups at the heart of Canadian identity.
The Constitution Act of 1982
In 1982, Canada patriated its Constitution, meaning it gained full control over amending its own highest law without needing the British Parliament. The Constitution Act, 1982, included the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which entrenched fundamental rights and freedoms in the supreme law of the country. Queen Elizabeth II proclaimed the new Constitution in Ottawa.
Canadian achievements
Canadians have made remarkable contributions to industry, science, medicine, sport and the arts.
- Insulin, used to treat diabetes, was discovered by Sir Frederick Banting and Charles Best.
- Dr. Wilder Penfield was a pioneering brain surgeon, sometimes called the greatest living Canadian.
- The telephone was developed by Alexander Graham Bell, who lived in Canada.
- The Canadarm, a robotic arm, is among Canada's contributions to space exploration.
- Canadians have won the Nobel Prize in fields ranging from chemistry to literature.
Sports and the arts
Hockey is Canada's most popular spectator sport and is considered the national winter sport, while lacrosse is the national summer sport. Canadian athletes have excelled at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the country has hosted the Olympics.
Canada has a vibrant culture in literature, music, film and the visual arts. The Group of Seven developed a distinctive style of Canadian landscape painting, and Canadian authors, musicians and performers are known around the world.