1. The National Unity Debate
An Introduction

2. Learning Goals By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Describe some significant issues and/or developments that have affected the relationship between Quebec and the federal government

3. Key questions to consider…
How much do you value a united Canada?
What is a majority?
Is 51% enough in any case?
What about a matter of national unity?

4. Let’s Review…
So far, we have seen the beginnings of Quebec’s discontent starting in the 1940’s, 50’s
Changes were made to make Quebec more ‘modern’ through the Quiet Revolution
Some felt this was not enough, and became more radical (i.e. FLQ)
The next step will be to try politics…

5. The Rise of the PQ
Rene Levesque founds the new Parti Quebecois in the 1970’s
His party’s main goal is to separate Quebec from Canada
In 1976 the PQ becomes the official gov’t in Quebec

6. Language Laws – the first step
In 1977 the PQ passes the controversial Bill 101 (aka the Sign Law)
All signs/billboards must be in French only
Children of French parents must attend French schools
New immigrants to Que must attend French schools
Many English Cdns upset!

7. The 1980 Referendum
An independence referendum (mass vote) was scheduled for May, 1980 in Que
The question? Sovereignity Association – political independence, but economic co- operation with Canada
PM Pierre Trudeau fights for Canada to stay united
No side wins 60%-40%

8. The 1995 Referendum
Jacques Parizeau (PQ leader)
Several other conflicts between Quebec and Canada (ex. Constitution Crisis, Meech Lake…)
Then…another referendum in (No side won 51%– 49%)
vs.
Jean Chretien (Prime Minister)
Lucien Bouchard (BQ leader)