Why did they fight for Canada?
Historical Perspectives
Students will work to uncover the perspective of a diverse number of identifiable groups from Canadian history. They will learn and consider the experience of many different Canadians during the First World War.
Themes:
First World War, Personal Stories
Levels:
Intermediate, Secondary
PDF (194.8 KB)
Activation: Why was this a "White Man's War"?
Exploration: Who was Francis Pegahmagabow?
Discussion: Why did they fight for Canada?
Lesson Duration
1 class period (75 minutes)
Lesson Materials
Preparation
The Manipulatives in the PDF found above will need to be prepared by the teacher in advance of the lesson.
Notes for Educators
This is a very open kind of inquiry that allows students to explore the topics that interest them the most.
Additional Resources
The Great War Website has a great overview article including the experience of many different groups.
Black Canadian Soldiers
“Photo reminds us of Canada’s first all-Black Battalion” - CBC News
Veterans Affairs Canada Website
From Historica Canada - a brief description of the No. 2 Construction Battalion and related links
Canada Post Website - 2016 Black History Month Stamp for the No. 2 Construction Battalion
Enemy Aliens
Dark Memories Endure (Article)
Discrimination Against Immigrants during the First World War (Article)
First Nations Soldiers
First Nations on the Front Lines
Legendary Ojibwa Sniper - Francis Pegahmagabow Article and Video
Francis Pegahmagabow - Canadian Encyclopedia Biography
Aboriginal Soldiers among Top Snipers of WWI
Women in the First World War
Women’s Roles during World War I and the Suffragist Movement
Photo Credit: Canadian War Museum
PDF (194.8 KB)
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