Symbols of Canada
I was in elementary school when the Canadian government put out a call for the people of Canada to submit designs for the new flag. The one that was picked is shown here. It is a symbol of national unity that represents people from hundreds of cultures, without prejudice. Whatever country you are from, be proud of your flag and respect it.
Canada is unique. (different from other countries.) We use symbols to let the world know who we are and where we live. The maple leaf is on the Canadian flag. Long before Europeans came to Canada, the aboriginal people had discovered the nutritional food properties of the sugar maple tree. The maple leaf was used to identify Canada as early as 1700.
Today, the maple leaf appears on Canada's penny. Between 1876, and 1901, it appeared on all Canadian coins. The maple leaf has been used since 1939 by the Canadian Armed Forces. At that time, the leaf was green. Today, all maple leaves that are used to represent Canada are red. That is because red is Canada's official colour.
In October 1921, the Bluenose sailed for Halifax, Nova Scotia, to take part in the International Series races. She beat all other Canadian schooners. Then, she raced against the Elsie, an American vessel. The Bluenose beat the Elsie and won the International Cup. Many generations of Canadians have grown up listening to stories about the Bluenose. She is Canada's most famous Nova Scotian fishing vessel. A likeness of the Bluenose has been on the Canadian dime since 1937.
The Canada Goose is another symbol of Canada. Though these geese live in many parts of North America, they are a great representative of my country. Their strong call announces spring and their departure in fall lets us know that winter is on the way. Some Canadian Geese winter in Canada, but most migrate south.
Next time: Symbols of Canada: Part Two
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