Canadian History Title



   Canada in the 21st Century: Peacekeeping Missions 
                                                                                                                         

PAGE DEVELOPED BY: Andrew Hrivnak 2006


INSTRUCTIONS






 

Article Critiques

 



 Related Articles / Links:
 -Canada and Peace Support Missions
-The history of Canadian peacekeeping
-Canadian Peacekeeping in Afghanistan
-Pull Canadians out of Afghanistan

 
Historical Summary
     Peacekeeping has been a part of Canada’s image for over fifty years. It was originally started by the United Nations as a method of preventing wars by removing potential conflicts throughout the world. Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson made a proposal to the UN in 1956 suggesting that they should set up a non-combat force to help resolve and supervise foreign disagreements. The first peacekeeping mission took place at the Suez Canal in Egypt where a Canadian General led a team of peacekeeping soldiers from many UN countries. Since the first mission, over 100 Canadians have died attempting to save the lives of others. Pearson eventually won the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to keeping international peace, and shaped some of the good habits that Canada is known for today.

Historical Importance 
     The policy of peacekeeping has been a significant Canadian symbol since its start in 1956. Between 1991 and 1996, Canada joined in the participation of 24 international peacekeeping missions. Currently, Canada is actively contributing to peacekeeping missions centered in Afghanistan. The Canadian government recently decided to extend these missions until the year 2009, because they believe that the country still needs their help. Canada’s dedication to global peace has set an example for other countries to follow, which will likely improve the world’s quality of life. It is obvious that Canadian peacekeeping has not only affected Canada as a nation, but helped to sustain universal peace.    


   REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Which Prime Minister suggested the policy of peacekeeping to the UN?
    1. Pierre Elliot Trudeau
    2. Lester B. Pearson
    3. Stephen Harper
    4. John A. Macdonald




  2. In which country has Canada recently decided to remain peacekeeping in?
    1. Afghanistan
    2. Iraq
    3. North Korea
    4. Argentina



  3. In which country did the first peacekeeping mission take place?
    1. Sweden
    2. Thailand
    3. Egypt
    4. China



  4. In what year did peacekeeping officially begin?

    1. 1946
    2. 1956
    3. 1964
    4. 1938


     

    5.  Which Canadian Prime Minister recently decided on an extended peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan?

    1. Paul Martin
    2. Jean Chretien
    3. Stephen Harper
    4. Joe Clark