Nova Scotia Flashcards

Who were the United Empire Loyalists?

Answer: Settlers who came to Canada from the United States during the American Revolution.

The United Empire Loyalists were American colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution. After the war, many of them migrated north to British North America (now Canada), settling primarily in what would become Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes. Their arrival significantly shaped Canada's demographics and political landscape.

What does Confederation mean?

Answer: Joining of provinces to make a new country.

Confederation refers to the process in 1867 when several British North American colonies (the Province of Canada, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia) united to form a new country, the Dominion of Canada. This act established Canada as a self-governing entity under the British Crown. It marked a pivotal moment in the nation's history, laying the groundwork for its expansion and development.

What is the name of the Royal Anthem of Canada?

Answer: God Save the Queen (or King).

"God Save the Queen" (or "God Save the King" when the monarch is male) is Canada's Royal Anthem, signifying allegiance to the Sovereign. While "O Canada" is the national anthem, the Royal Anthem is played in the presence of the Sovereign or other members of the Royal Family. It reflects Canada's constitutional monarchy and its ties to the Commonwealth.

What year was Confederation?

Answer: 1867.

Canada officially became a country through Confederation on July 1, 1867. On this date, the British North America Act (now the Constitution Act, 1867) came into effect, uniting the Province of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick into a single dominion. This year is celebrated annually as Canada Day.

Which province was split into two at Confederation?

Answer: The Province of Canada

At Confederation in 1867, the Province of Canada was divided into two new provinces: Ontario (formerly Canada West) and Quebec (formerly Canada East). This division addressed the distinct cultural and linguistic identities within the larger province, allowing for better governance and representation for both English and French-speaking populations.

Which was the last province to join Canada?

Answer: Newfoundland.

Newfoundland was the last province to join Canadian Confederation, doing so on March 31, 1949. Prior to this, it had been a separate British dominion. Its entry completed the geographical span of Canada from coast to coast to coast, bringing the total number of provinces to ten.

What is the meaning of the Remembrance Day poppy?

Answer: To remember the sacrifice of Canadians who have served or died in wars up to the present day.

The Remembrance Day poppy is worn to commemorate the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers, sailors, airmen, and merchant mariners who have served and died in all wars, peacekeeping operations, and military missions. Inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," the poppy symbolizes remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. It is a powerful symbol observed annually on November 11th.

Name six responsibilities of citizenship.

Answer: Obeying the law, taking responsibility for oneself and one's family, helping others in the community, voting in elections, serving on a jury, protecting and enjoying our heritage and environment.

Canadian citizenship entails both rights and responsibilities, which are crucial for a functioning democratic society. These responsibilities include upholding the rule of law, contributing to the well-being of one's family and community, participating in democratic processes like voting, and actively preserving Canada's natural and cultural heritage. Fulfilling these duties strengthens the nation and its values.

What will you promise when you take the Oath of Citizenship?

Answer: Pledge allegiance to the Queen, observe the laws of Canada and fulfil the duties of a Canadian.

When taking the Oath of Citizenship, new Canadians formally commit to their new country by pledging allegiance to the Sovereign, who represents Canada's head of state. They also promise to respect and obey the laws of Canada and to fulfill the responsibilities and duties that come with being a Canadian citizen. This oath is a solemn and legally binding declaration.

What are the two official languages of Canada?

Answer: English and French.

The Official Languages Act of 1969 established English and French as the two official languages of Canada, granting them equal status in federal institutions. This reflects Canada's historical origins and its commitment to linguistic duality. All federal government services are available in both languages across the country.

In Canada's justice system what does "presumption of innocence" mean?

Answer: Everyone is innocent until proven guilty

"Presumption of innocence" is a fundamental principle of Canada's justice system, meaning that any person accused of a crime is considered innocent until the Crown (prosecution) proves their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof rests entirely with the prosecution, and the accused does not have to prove their innocence. This principle protects individual rights and ensures fair trials.

Which province is the only officially bilingual province?

Answer: New Brunswick.

New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in Canada, meaning its provincial government is constitutionally obligated to provide services in both English and French. This unique status reflects its significant Acadian (French-speaking) population and its commitment to linguistic equality within the province.

What does the Canadian flag look like?

Answer: White with a red border on each end and a red maple leaf in the centre.

The national flag of Canada, often called the "Maple Leaf Flag," features a prominent red maple leaf centered on a white square, flanked by two red vertical stripes (palettes) on either side. The red and white are Canada's official national colours. This design was adopted in 1965 and is a widely recognized symbol of the country.

What three oceans border Canada?

Answer: Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific.

Canada is unique in being bordered by three major oceans: the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. This extensive coastline makes Canada a maritime nation with diverse ecosystems and strategic importance. It's often described as "from sea to sea to sea."

What is the capital city of Canada?

Answer: Ottawa.

Ottawa, located in Ontario, is the capital city of Canada. It was chosen by Queen Victoria in 1857 due to its central location between English-speaking Upper Canada (Ontario) and French-speaking Lower Canada (Quebec), and its defensible position. Ottawa is home to the Parliament of Canada and many national institutions.

What are the territories of Northern Canada and their capital cities?

Answer: Yukon Territory (Whitehorse), Northwest Territories (Yellowknife), and Nunavut (Iqaluit).

Canada has three northern territories, each with its own capital city. The Yukon Territory's capital is Whitehorse, the Northwest Territories' capital is Yellowknife, and Nunavut's capital is Iqaluit. These territories cover a vast area of Canada's north and are home to diverse Indigenous populations.