Canadian History Since World War I

CHC2D – Canadian History Since World War I offers students a compelling exploration of the events, movements, and decisions that have shaped modern Canada. Spanning from 1914 to the present day, this course invites students to investigate how global conflicts, economic upheavals, political transformations, and social justice efforts have contributed to the evolution of Canadian identity and values.

Using inquiry-based learning, critical analysis of primary sources, and historical thinking strategies, students delve into key moments such as Canada’s involvement in the World Wars, the Great Depression, Indigenous reconciliation efforts, and the emergence of national policies like the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Each unit emphasizes the human experience—how individuals, communities, and governments responded to the challenges and opportunities of their time.

Students are encouraged to draw connections between the past and the present, understanding how historical decisions continue to impact current issues in Canada and around the world. They engage in meaningful discussions, conduct research, and analyze different perspectives to build empathy, civic responsibility, and a well-rounded understanding of Canada’s place in history.

By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills to think like historians—questioning, analyzing, interpreting, and communicating about the past with insight and purpose.

Unit 1: 1914–1929
Students begin by examining the causes, consequences, and legacy of World War I and its impact on Canadian society.
Lessons include:

• Causes of World War I
• Canada’s Involvement in the War
• Technological Advances and Major Battles
• Paying for the War
• Changing Roles of Women
• Post-War Social Change

Unit 2: 1929–1945
This unit covers the Great Depression and Canada’s role in World War II.
Lessons include:

• Timeline and Causes of WWII
• Canada and the Great Depression
• Technological Developments and Warfare
• The Holocaust and the Pacific War
• Life on the Canadian Home Front
• Hobbies and Sports (Jouer and Faire)
• Adjective Agreement and Placement
• Reflexive and Irregular Verbs
• Describing Routines and Habits

Unit 3: 1945–1982
Students explore the post-war boom, political changes, and cultural shifts across Canada.
Lessons include:

• The Post-War Years
• Political and Economic Changes in the 1950s
• Social and Political Movements in the 1960s and 1970s
• Pierre Trudeau and National Unity
• Review of Canada’s Post-WWII Growth

Unit 4: 1982–Present
This unit looks at recent history, including Indigenous reconciliation, global affairs, and the changing face of Canada.
Lessons include:

• The Constitution and Charter (1982–Present)
• Social and Political Shifts of the 1980s–2000s
• Canada in the 21st Century
• Truth and Reconciliation Efforts

Student performance in CHC2D is evaluated through analytical writing, primary source interpretation, and historical inquiry tasks:

• 70% of the final grade comes from ongoing coursework and unit-based assignments
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating historical research assignment or portfolio
  • 20% Final written exam covering all four eras

All evaluations follow Ontario curriculum expectations and aim to develop students’ abilities to research, question, reflect, and write about Canada's historical journey.