Canadian Connections to England

As a Canadian, you have likely had some notion that there is a political tie to Britain but maybe don’t know why or whether there’s much connection at all anymore. Have you noticed these significant hints that England has some power here in Canada?

• Visits to Canada from the royal family are widely publicized and our news outlets keep up on the activity of the British monarch even when it’s happening across the pond.
• The May “two-four” weekend is celebrated across almost all of Canada on the Monday on or before the 24th of May as Victoria Day (Québec celebrates National Patriots’ Day on the same day.) which is named to mark Queen Victoria’s Birthday.
• Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II shows up on some of our Canadian currency as have other faces of the monarch over the years.

The Constitution Act, 1982 ended the power of the British Parliament to amend the Canadian Constitution which gave Canada its full independence as a country. There is still a bit of a political connection between Canada and Britain although it’s more for tradition and friendship between countries than any real power.

A Quick Look at the Timeline of Independence

In 1763, Canada’s place in the British Empire was established with the signing of the Treaty of Paris at the conclusion of the Seven Years’ War, which involved some of the land that makes up Canada now, but this was about 100 years before Canada became a country.

In 1931, England granted Canada legal freedom and equal standing. At this time, Canada joined many other countries in the British Commonwealth and began to break ties with England a bit, creating the maple leaf flag and other symbols.

In 1982, Canada adopted their own constitution and began as an independent country.

British Roots and Traditions in Canada

British Commonwealth

Canada is still a part of the British Commonwealth that includes 53 other countries who accept the British monarch as the symbolic head of the association.

Governor General

While the Prime Minister is the true head of the Canadian government, the governor general is still appointed in the name of the Queen.

Strategic Partnership

The partnership of Canada and the United Kingdom is a high priority to this day. Their bond through security, international organizations and global economic conditions is still standing.

Canadian Oath of Citizenship

The Oath of Citizenship for Canada also refers to the Queen.

“I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen.”

Armed Forces

While this is a symbolic role, the Queen does act as Colonel-in-Chief for the Calgary Regiment and The Canadian Grenadier Guards. These duties, however, are carried out by the Governor General.

Government Approvals

There are still a few things in which the Queen’s signature is required. These include patent letters, appointments of the governor general, and senate seat additions.

Teach your kids about the Commonwealth with the Commonwealth Class Education Pack which includes direction and resources geared for children to learn about what it is, what the countries do together and stories from children of different countries in the commonwealth.

This article has been written by homeschooling staff writers of The Canadian Schoolhouse (TCS). Enjoy more of our content from TCS contributors and staff writers by visiting our Front Door page that has content on our monthly theme and links to all our content sections.