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I sat down to watch Parts 5-9 of Canada: A People's History with high expectations. I had not had the opportunity to view any of the series when it was originally broadcast. The programs had received considerable attention when they were released, and the idea of a popular history of Canada was enticing and exciting.
These episodes present the history of British North America from the American Revolution to the Pacific Scandal. 'A Question of Loyalties' opens with British Americans being persecuted in 1775 and ends with a photograph of veterans of the War of 1812. 'Pathfinders' considers the 'opening' of the West by European explorers and fur traders, and 'the peopling' of the region from 1812 to the Gold Rush of 1858 and the creation of the colony of British Columbia. After presenting the rebellions and the coming of responsible government, viewers are introduced, in 'The Great Enterprise,' to the men and the times of Confederation. 'The Great Enterprise' and 'From Sea to Sea' end with the 'completion' of Confederation and the resignation of Macdonald.
Canada: A People's History is a lesson in how to create a popular, national story. It...