Entry of Newfoundland into Confederation

Study Guide
Note the vocabulary word, true/false or answer cue: when you click "Back" you may have to scan text to find your place again.

Vocabulary:

referendum:

the submission of a proposed public measure or actual law to a direct popular vote.

unprecedented:

without a previous example or model.

proponent:

One who argues in support of something; an advocate

True or False:

1. Prosperity increased in Newfoundland during World War II. T or F
2. The British government strongly opposed union with Canada. T or F
3. Joseph R.Smallwood fought to keep Newfoundland an independent country. T or F
4. Three referenda were required to determine Newfoundland's union with Canada. T or F
5. Those in favour of joining Canada won by a large majority. T or F

Short Answer Responses:

1. What two provinces did not join Confederation in 1867? answer
2. What caused Newfoundland to lose its independent status in the 1930's? answer
3. What were the three alternatives that Newfoundlanders had to choose from in the first referendum? answer
4. What were the fears of those who were in favour of returning to an independent Newfoundland? answer

What do you think?
Why do you think it was difficult and even painful for Newfoundlanders to decide whether to remain independent or to join Canada?

Discussion Question:
In light of Newfoundland's present economic situation, discuss with your class the pros and cons or positives and negatives of Newfoundland's decision to join Canada.

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