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SS6H5 20th Century Issues in Canada. Quebec’s Independence Movement. Quebec. French is the official language of Quebec 90% of Quebecers speak French English is used and written, but must be under the French words and a smaller font size.
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SS6H5 20th Century Issues in Canada Quebec’s Independence Movement
Quebec • French is the official language of Quebec • 90% of Quebecers speak French • English is used and written, but must be under the French words and a smaller font size. • Many Quebecers are happy with Canada, but some feel Quebec should be independent.
Quebec’s Culture • Quebec is full of the French culture within the country of Canada. • For hundreds of years the Francophones have tried to preserve their culture, language, religion, and ethnic identity. • They did not want to absorb into the Canadian culture and it’s English roots. • The Quebecers and the rest of Canada share a history of cooperation and success.
Quebec and Independence • The movement began in the 1960s and wanted to preserve their French heritage and language. • The people leading the independence movement were called separatists because they wanted Quebec to be a separate country within Canada. • This movement led to referendums (a public vote) in 1980 and 1995 on Quebec’s sovereignty. • Both times the referendum was voted down and Quebec remain part of Canada. • Canada’s government have taken action and passed laws like making Canada Bilingual (2 languages), made laws to preserve one’s cultural heritage (Canadian Multicultural Act), and Canada is labeled a “distinct society”. • In 1998 Canada’s Supreme Court ruled Quebec cannot secede (break away) without the country’s consent.
Quebec’s Importance to Canada. • The Canadian Government wants Quebec to remain part of its country. • For one Quebec is important to Canada’s economy. • Quebec has a thriving high-tech industry, abundant natural resources, and a major shipping route long the St. Lawrence River. • A large part of Canada’s industry is also centered in Quebec. • The Canadian government also fears that Quebec being independent would affect the railway system in Canada, its roads, and water routes.
On a separate sheet of paper answer the question below. • Do you think it is a good or bad idea for Quebec to become independent? Explain.