History Browser

This article explains the history of the Cold War era of NATO, the Warsaw Pact. It focuses on Canada's role during this era. Includes a list of suggested readings.

Listing of films from the National Film Board. The evolution of nuclear fear in Canada is documented in this collection. Beginning with rumours of communist spies, continuing with fear of nuclear attack, and finally today with testing of nuclear weapons in our northern provinces by the United States.

Compares and contrasts the positions of civil defense and nuclear disarmament.

Students explore a CBC Archives website to gather some first impressions and background information on the Cold War era and its impact on Canadian society and politics.

Investigates government and personal measures taken in order to ensure survival in the event of a nuclear war.

Best suited for senior students, this task involves developing a timeline of some of the major events of the Cold War and indicating how Canada was involved or affected by them. May be modified for younger students.

With superpowers in the east and west testing powerful new weapons, the Canadian race for self-preservation took off in the early 1950s. The rising of the Iron Curtain intensified the threat of mass destruction, as communication between the Americans and Soviets came to a screeching halt. In this volatile new world, Canadians fretted about fallout shelters and the government prepared to go underground.

Students reflect on and discuss how the Cold War affected the lives of young people in Canada, both at home and in school.