What was the first wave of immigration to Canada?
Canada has been welcoming immigrants for centuries. Immigration to Canada has changed over time and included many different groups of people. Immigration has shaped Canada's history and culture.
Immigration Waves to Canada
Immigration: The act of coming to live in a foreign country. Waves: A large group of people or things that come one after the other. Culture: The beliefs, customs, and practices of a particular group of people.
Concepts:
In your opinion, what has been the most important immigration wave to Canada?
- European settlers in the 1700s
- Ukrainians in the late 1800s
- Vietnamese in the 1970s
- Syrians in the 2010s
In 1951, Canada had the highest immigration rate in its history with over 400,000 newcomers. Between 1815 and 1950, most immigrants to Canada were from the British Isles. In 2021, Canada welcomed over 400,000 new permanent residents.
Fun facts:
Draw / write: What are some of the challenges that immigrants to Canada have faced in the past?
Draw / write: How have different waves of immigration impacted Canada's culture and economy?
What can we learn from the ways immigrants have been welcomed or rejected by Canadian society over time?
What do you think we can do to make sure that Canada is an inclusive and welcoming society for all immigrants?