Think you know everything about Canadian history? You might be surprised! Just like any country, Canada has its share of historical myths that many of us believe are true. From stories about our founders to tales of our national symbols, some of these “facts” we learned on the streets and in school might not be so factual after all.
Let’s look at 10 common myths about Canadian history and set the record straight.
1. The Maple Leaf Flag Debate
Many think Canada’s maple leaf flag was an instant hit, but that’s not true. The flag debate in the 1960s was actually pretty heated. People argued over designs for months. Some wanted to keep the old Red Ensign flag. In the end, the maple leaf design won, becoming official on February 15, 1965.
2. The Last Spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway
You’ve probably seen the famous photo of the Last Spike being driven. But did you know it wasn’t the real last spike? The actual last spike was iron, not gold, and was driven with little fanfare. The photo we often see was staged later for publicity. Still, the railway’s completion in 1885 was a huge deal for Canada.
3. Laura Secord’s Heroic Journey
Laura Secord is famous for warning British forces about an American attack in 1813. But the story got exaggerated over time. She didn’t actually meet with Lieutenant FitzGibbon as often told. Her warning was important but wasn’t the only factor in the British victory. Secord’s story became popular much later, in the 1860s.
4. The Hudson’s Bay Company’s Beaver Pelts
We often hear the Hudson’s Bay Company was all about beaver pelts. While beavers were important, they weren’t the whole story. The company traded many other furs, such as marten and fox. They also sold other goods to settlers. The beaver became a symbol, but the HBC’s business was more diverse.
5. Confederation and the Fathers of Confederation
The term “Fathers of Confederation” makes it sound like only men were involved. But women played important roles, too, even if they weren’t at the official meetings. The process of creating Canada took years, not just one conference. And not all provinces joined in 1867 – some came much later.
Also read: All The Statutory Holidays In Canada And What They Stand For
6. The Underground Railroad
Many think the Underground Railroad only went north to Canada. But it also went south to Mexico and the Caribbean. Not all Black people in Canada came via the Underground Railroad. Many were already living in Canada or came through other means. The railroad was important, but it’s just part of Black Canadian history.
7. First Nations and the Name “Canada”
You might have heard “Canada” comes from the Huron-Iroquois word “kanata”. That’s partly true, but it’s not the whole story. Many Indigenous nations had their own names for this land. The name “Canada” was first used for a small area, not the whole country. It only became official for the entire country much later.
8. The War of 1812
Some say Canada won the War of 1812 against the U.S., but it’s not that simple. Canada wasn’t even a country yet – it was still British North America. The war ended in a draw, with both sides claiming victory. It did help shape Canadian identity, but calling it a Canadian win isn’t quite right.
9. Vikings in Canada
We know Vikings came to Canada long before Columbus, but there are myths here, too. L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland is the only confirmed Norse site in North America. They didn’t stay long or explore much beyond the coast. The Viking presence was brief and limited, not a full-scale settlement.
10. The Origin of Hockey
Many proudly say hockey was invented in Canada, but it’s more complicated. Similar games were played in Europe long before. What we call hockey today evolved from these earlier games. Canada did play a huge role in developing modern ice hockey. But saying we “invented” it isn’t quite accurate – we perfected it!
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