Today in Canadian History

May 19 – Parks Canada’s 100th Anniversary!

Sat, 19 May 2012 17:00:00 +0000

A special extended edition for our 200th episode!

May 18 – Fire in Montreal

Fri, 18 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Fire struck Montreal back in 1765. We spoke with Tyler Wood, of Centre d'histoire de Montréal about fires in Montreal.

May 17 – The Vickers Vedette

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

On this day back in 1929, Colin Jack Caldwell became the first Canadian to save his life by parachute when he jumped out of a Vickers Vedette over Montreal on May 17th 1929. To learn more we spoke with Shirley Render, the executive director of the The Western Canada Aviation Museum in Winnipeg.

May 13 – Roch Carrier is Born

Sun, 13 May 2012 09:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Canadian arts advocate and author of "The Hockey Sweater" who was born on this date back in 1937.

May 12 – Farley Mowat is Born

Sat, 12 May 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Iconic Canadian writer Farley Mowat was born on this day back in 1921. We spoke with Leanne Allison director of "Finding Farley" to learn more about her family's epic journey across this country, and the landscapes of Mowat's writings.

May 11 – The West End Gang

Fri, 11 May 2012 17:00:00 +0000

We spoke with D’Arcy O’Connor, author of “Montreal’s Irish Mafia: The True Story of the Infamous West End Gang.”

May 10 – The Legacy of Batoche

Thu, 10 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

The battle of Batoche was raging on this day back in in 1885. To learn more about the legacy of the battle in the history of Canada's Metis peoples we spoke with historian Laurence Barkwell, author of "1885: The Militia of the Metis Liberation Movement".

May 9 – The Chocolate Bar War

Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Back in 1947, children across Canada organized and protested the rising cost of chocolate bars.

May 6 – North America’s first Pesticide Ban

Sun, 06 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

The town of Hudson, Quebec passed North America's first ban of the non-essential use of Pesticides on this date back in 1991. To learn more, we spoke with Ashley Jensen of the Canadian Cancer Society.

May 4 – Law and Order in the Klondike

Fri, 04 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The first of many American prospectors heading north to the Klondike passed through what is now Stewart, British Columbia on this day back in 1898. To learn more about Sam Steele of the North West Mounted Police we spoke with Charlotte Gray author of "Gold Diggers: Striking it Rich in the Klondike".

May 3 – Stampede Wrestling

Thu, 03 May 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Stu Hart, founder of Stampede Wrestling was born on May 3, 1915. To learn more we spoke with Heath McCoy, author of "Pain and Passion: the History of Stampede Wrestling".

April 29 – The Frank Slide

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

An estimated 70 people perished when the side of Turtle Mountain buried part of Frank, Alberta.

April 28 – Expo 67 Opens

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Expo 67 was a showcase for Canada's cool side. We spoke with Dr. Bryan Palmer author of "Canada's 1960's: The Ironies of Identity in a Rebellious Era" about the upside and downside of having a Prime Minister that many Canadians view as sexy.

April 27 – The Sacking of York

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0000

York was sacked by American forces during the War of 1812 on this day back in 1813.

April 21 – The Birth of Queen Elizabeth II

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Queen Elizabeth II was born on this date back in 1926. To discuss the role of the monarchy in Canada we spoke with Josh Traptow of the Monarchist League of Canada.

April 20 – The Rainmaker

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Charles Mallory Hatfield, an American rainmaker, arrived in Medicine Hat on this day back in 1921.

April 19 – Black Loyalists During the American Revolution

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +0000

The battles of Lexington of Concord sparked the American Revolutionary War on this date back in 1775. To learn more about the slaves who fought for the British and eventually settled in Nova Scotia we spoke with Bevery Cox of the The Black Loyalist Heritage Society, located in Birchtown, Nova Scotia.

April 15 – Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp is Liberated

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0000

British and Canadian troops liberated prisoners at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp on April 15, 1945. To learn more about the legacy of holocaust survivors in Canada we spoke with Sabrina Moisan of the Montreal Holocaust Memorial Centre.

April 14th – “Surplus Children”

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Kenneth Bagnell, the author of "The Little Immigrants: The Orphans Who Came to Canada".

April 13 – Grey Owl Passes

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0000

On this day back in 1938, the British-born conservationist Grey Owl passed away.

April 12 – The March of New Brunswick’s 104th

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:00:00 +0000

New Brunswick's 104th Foot Regiment arrived in Kingston on this date back in 1813. Their march from Fredericton covered over 1100km. To learn more we spoke to Historian and author of "The Road to Canada: The Grand Communications Route from Saint John to Quebec", Gary Campbell.

April 11 – Byng and Vimy Ridge

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0000

April 11, 1917 marked the third day of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. We spoke with Dr. Patrick Brennan of the University of Calgary about the leadership of lieutenant-general Julian Byng.

April 7 – The First Stamps

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 08:00:00 +0000

A Canadian postmaster issued a provisional stamp on this date back in 1851 - two weeks before the first Canadian stamps were issued to the public. To learn more we spoke with George Pepall, the President of the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada.

April 6 – Vancouver Incorporated as a City

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Vancouver was incorporated as a city back in 1886. We spoke with civic historian John Atkin.

April 5 – The Ripple Rock Explosion

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Over the years over 100 vessels and 100 people were victims of Ripple Rock. The underwater "mountain" that was Ripple Rock was blown-up on this day back in 1958.

April 4 – E. H. Norman Takes His Own Life

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Canadian diplomat and accused Soviet spy E. H. Norman jumped to his death from the roof of the Swedish Embassy in Cairo, Egypt on this day back in 1957. To learn more about Canada in the time of the Cold War we spoke with Dr. Bryan Palmer author of "Canada's 1960's: The Ironies of Identity in a Rebellious Era".

April 1 – A Small Town Mayor and the First Offical Game of Curling

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000

To learn about the story of a small town mayor in 1888, we spoke with Dr. Martin Raeb. To learn about the first game of curling we spoke with Dr. Anthony Morrow of the University of Waterloo.

March 31 – Last Tot of Rum for Navy

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Likely that some members of the Canadian Navy woke up with a hangover on this day back in 1972. The previous day they were served the last ration of rum.

March 30 – The Labrador Joins Newfoundland

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000

On this day back in 1809, Labrador joined Newfoundland as a colony of the British Empire. To learn more about the history of Labrador, we spoke with author of "The Story of Labrador" Canadian Senator William Rompkey.

March 29: Budge Crawley Wins Oscar

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0000

In 1976, F.R. "Budge" Crawley accepted an Academy Award for his film The Man Who Skied Down Everest. It was the first time a Canadian-made film received an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature.

March 25 – The Aroostook War Take II

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

The agreement which ended the crisis at the Maine/New Brunswick border was signed on this day back in 1839. To learn more we spoke with historian and author of "The Road to Canada: The Grand Communications Route from Saint John to Quebec" Gary Campbell.

March 24 – Black Canadians Granted the Right to Vote

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

On March 24, 1837 Black Canadians were granted the right to vote in elections. To learn more we spoke with Rosemary Saidler, the President of the Ontario Black History Society.

March 23 – The Gazette Hits the Stands

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

The Halifax Gazette, Canada's first newspaper, is published for the first time back in 1752.

March 21 – The North West Company Merges with the Hudson’s Bay Company

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000

On March 21, 1821 the North West Company was forced to merge with the Hudson's Bay Company. To learn more we spoke with Marty Mascarin, of the Fort William Historical Park.

March 18 – The SS Beaver Arrived at the Pacific Coast

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000

The SS Beaver, the first steamship to operate in the Pacific Northwest, arrived at the coast on this day back in 1836.

March 17 – Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Celebrated in Ireland, Canada and around the world. Have a happy and safe St. Patrick's Day!

March 16 – St. Urho’s Day

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

On March 16th Finnish Canadians gather to celebrate St. Urho's Day. To learn more I spoke with Dorothy Ahlgren, President of the Canadian Friends of Finland located in Ottawa.

March 15 – King’s College Founded

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 21:00:00 +0000

King's College, later renamed University of Toronto, was founded by Royal Charter on this day back in 1827.

March 14 – The One Big Union is Formed

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 09:00:00 +0000

A vote to form The One Big Union occurred at a three day conference in Calgary during March of 1919. To learn more we spoke with Dr. Ken Coates a professor of History as well as the Dean of Arts at the University of Waterloo.

March 11 – Richard Blanshard Arrives on Vancouver Island

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 02:00:00 +0000

The first governor of the Colony of Vancouver Island arrived on the island on this day back in 1850. To learn more we spoke with John Adams historian and author of "Old Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas".

March 10 – Clifford Sifton is Born

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Key politician in the plan to settle Canada's West, Clifford Sifton was born on this date back in 1861. To learn more we spoke with Dr. David J. Hall, Professor Emeritus from the University of Alberta.

March 9 – Arctic Winter Games

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

The first Arctic Winter Games were held in Yellowknife on this day back in 1970

March 8 – International Women’s Day Edition (Extended)

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 +0000

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, we spoke with Dr. Mona Gleason of the University of British Columbia about the history of women in Canada.

March 8 – International Women’s Day Edition (Short)

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 +0000

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, we spoke with Dr. Mona Gleason of the University of British Columbia about the history of women in Canada.

March 7 – The Montreal Shamrocks

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 01:00:00 +0000

The Montreal Shamrocks won the Stanley Cup on this day back in 1900. To learn more we spoke with Dr. Matthew Barlow of John Abbott College.

March 4 – Actor John Candy Passed

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Canadian comedian and actor John Candy passed away on this day back in 1994.

March 3 – First Official Indoor Game of Hockey

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 14:00:00 +0000

McGill University students participated in the first official game of indoor ice hockey on this day back in Montreal in 1875.

March 2 – Inuit Artist Jessie Oonark Passed

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:00:00 +0000

On this day back in 1985, artist Jessie Oonark passed away in Churchill.

Mar. 1 – The Great Winnipeg Gold Robbery of 1966

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Kenneth "The Gentleman Bandit" Leishman stole nearly $400 000 worth of Gold bullion from the Winnipeg International Airport on this date back in 1966. To learn more we spoke with historian Christian Cassidy of West End Dumplings & This Was Manitoba.

Feb. 28 – Alex Janvier and the Indian Group of Seven

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Acclaimed Canadian painter Alex Janvier was born on this date back in 1935. To learn more we spoke with the Manager of the Alex Janvier Art Gallery in Cold Lake, Alberta.

Feb. 24 – Martha Louise Munger is Born

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Martha Louise Munger, the second woman ever elected to Canadian Parliament, was born. We spoke with Frances Backhouse, author of "Women of the Klondike".

Feb. 23 – Matonabbee

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Chipewyan leader Matonabbee set off with explorer Samuel Hearne to find the headwaters of the Coppermine River in 1770.

Feb. 22 – Remembering the War of 1812

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 03:00:00 +0000

The Battle of Ogdensburg occurred on this day back in 1813. To learn more about the legacy of the war of 1812, we spoke with Mark Zuehlke, Canadian Historian and author of "For Honor's Sake: The War of 1812 and the Brokering of an Uneasy Peace".

Feb. 18 – The Battle of Paardeburg

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the Second Boer War and the Battle of Paardeburg we spoke with Professor Emeritus at Mcgill University as well as author of "Canada's Little War: Fighting for the British Empire in Southern Africa 1899-1902" Dr. Carman Miller.

Feb. 17 – The Mad Trapper is Killed

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

After a manhunt that lasted over one month, the man known only as "The Mad Trapper" is killed in Canada's North.

Feb. 16 – Citizenship Special

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

We attended a citizenship ceremony on February 15th, 2011 to speak with Citizenship Judge Joan May Way and some new Canadians.

Feb. 15 – The Great Upheaval

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the expulsion of Acadians from Canada's maritime provinces, we spoke with the Senior Editor of Canada’s History Magazine, Nelle Oosterom.

Feb. 14 – The Asbestos Strike of 1949

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Workers at a mine in Asbestos Que., walked off the job on this day back in 1949 triggering a violent four month strike. To learn more about the strike and its impact on the Quiet Revolution I spoke with Dr. Damien-Claude Bélanger of the Université d’Ottawa and author of "Prejudice and Pride: Canadian Intellectuals Confront the United States, 1891-1945".

Feb. 11 – Patrick James Whelan executed

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Patrick James Whelan was executed on this day back in 1869 for the assassination of Thomas D'Arcy McGee.

Feb. 10 – War Brides Arrive in 1946

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

The first ship carrying almost 400 war brides from England arrived in Halifax on this day back in 1946. To learn more, we spoke with Melynda Jarratt author of "War Brides : The Stories of the Women Who Left Everything Behind to Follow the Men They Loved".

Feb. 9 – 1913 Meteor Procession

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

This rare event took Canadians by surprise back in 1913.

Feb. 8 – The Aroostook War

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Posses of Canadian and American lumber workers clashed over the definition of the New Brunswick-Maine border at the outset of the Aroostook War. To learn more I spoke with Patrick Michaud of Fort Ingall.

Feb. 7 – First War Artists Commissioned

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

Canada became the first nation in the world to officially commission war artists on this day back in 1918. To learn more we spoke with Dr. Laura Brandon, a historian of war and art at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.

Feb 4. – Wreck of the Oil Tanker Arrow

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

The oil tanker Arrow went down off the coast of Nova Scotia.

Feb. 3 – Pierre Trudeau Tours Cuba

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0000

On a 12-day tour of Latin America in 1976, Prime Minister Trudeau met with Cuban Prime Minister Fidel Castro. To learn more we spoke with, Nino Ricci, author of "Extraordinary Canadians: Pierre Elliot Trudeau."

Feb. 2 – Wiarton Willie Festival

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Wiarton Willie Festival was founded back in 1956. One of the nation's most popular groundhogs.

Feb. 1 – The North West Mounted Police Becomes the RCMP.

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

On this day back in 1920 the The North West Mounted Police merged with the Dominion Police to become the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. To learn more about the history of the NWMP we spoke with Dawn Lauder, the Site Manager of the Fort Museum in Fort McLeod, Alberta.

Jan. 31 – “The Real James Bond” Sir William Stephenson Passes Away

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0000

Ian Fleming once claimed Sir William Stephenson to be the inspiration for James Bond. Stephenson passed away on this day back in 1989. To learn more we spoke with Gary Solar, President of the Intrepid Society.

Jan. 28 – Women Get the Vote

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

On January 28th Manitoba became the first province to grant women the right to vote. This was in so small part due to the efforts of suffragette Nellie McClung. To learn more, we spoke with Bette Meuller of the Nellie McClung Society.

Jan. 27 – The Original Bluenose’s Last Day

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

The original Bluenose spent it's last day sailing above water. The famous schooner went down off coast of Haiti in 1946.

Jan. 26 – Dr. Wilder Penfield is Born

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Neurosurgeon Dr. Wilder Penfield was born on this day back in 1891. To learn more we spoke with Dr. William Feindel who worked with Dr. Penfield at the Montreal Neurological Institute back in the 1950s.

Jan. 25 – Lucy Maud Montgomery in Ontario

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Did you know that Lucy Maud Montgomery wrote most of her books while living in the town of Leaskdale, Ontario? To learn more we spoke to Barbara Pratt of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario.

Jan. 24 – Japanese Canadian Internment

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Discussion with Prof. W. Peter Ward about the internment of Japanese Canadians during WWII.

Jan. 21 – The 1910 Spanish River Train Wreck

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Over 40 people perished when train derailed west of Sudbury. In terms of fatalities, fourth worst in Canadian history.

Jan. 20 – Doukhobors Arrive in Halifax

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Over 2000 Doukhobors arrived in Halifax on this date back in 1899. To learn more we spoke with Professor Julie Rak of the University of Alberta.

Jan. 19 – The Jets Leave Winnipeg

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The NHL approved the sale of the Winnipeg Jets to investors in Phoenix on this date back in 1996. To learn more, we spoke with professor Jim Silver: author of "Thin Ice: Money, Politics, and the Demise of an NHL Franchise".

Jan. 18 – Canadian Content Rules Come into Effect

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

We spoke with FRIENDS of Canadian Broadcasting's Ian Morrison on the anniversary of the CRTC's new Canadian Content rules coming into effect back in 1971.

Jan. 17 – Jacques Plante and Facial Protection in Hockey

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 20:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the introduction of head and facial protection in hockey we spoke with Dr. Bob Pashby on anniversary of NHL goalie Jacques Plante.

Jan. 13 – Major Gustave Biéler is Arrested by the Gestapo

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Major Gustave Biéler's daughter Jacqueline Bieler, on the anniversary of his 1944 arrest while aiding the French Resistance in WWII.

Jan. 12 – TICH: Now with more music!

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Marc and I are happy to announce an addition to our music arsenal: Lelland Reed on flute and Andrew Morrow on bass clarinet. Thank you to both!

Jan. 11 – John A. Macdonald is Born pt. 2 of 2

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0000

In part two, we discuss Sir John A. Macdonald: the man, with Richard J. Gwyn author of "John A, The Man Who Made Us".

Jan 10 – John A. Macdonald is Born pt. 1 of 2

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

In part one, we discuss the impact Sir John A. Macdonald had on shaping Canada with Richard J. Gwyn author of "John A, The Man Who Made Us".

Jan. 7 – Hank Snow Performs at the Grand Ole Opry

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 02:00:00 +0000

Canadian country music star Hank Snow performs at the Grand Ole Opry......and nobody likes him.

Jan. 6 – Brother André Bessette Passes Away

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Later known as Saint André Bessette, Brother André of Montreal died on this day back in 1937.

Jan. 5 – The Montreal Canadiens Play their First Game at Home

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

The Montreal Canadiens played their first game at Home on this day back in 1910. To learn more, we spoke with Dr. Matthew Barlow from the Department of History, Economics & Political Science at John Abbott College in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec.

Jan. 3 – “How the Scots Invented Canada”

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Ken MacGoogan author of "How the Scots Invented Canada" spoke to us on the anniversary of the arrival of 300 immigrants from the Scottish Highlands on this day in 1802.

Jan 4 – Canadian Artist Pegi Nicol MacLeod is Born

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

We spoke with I spoke with Dr. Laura Brandon, a historian of Art and War at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa as well as author of "Pegi by Herself: the life of Pegi Nicol MacLeod, Canadian artist".

Dec. 9 – Camp X

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 19:00:00 +0000

We discuss Camp X, the secret spy camp based on the shores of Lake Ontario during WWII.

Dec. 8 – The Battle of Hong Kong and its Aftermath

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

The Battle of Hong Kong began on this day back in 1941. To learn more we spoke with historian and author of "The Damned: The Canadians at the Battle of Hong Kong and the POW Experience, 1941-45" Nathan M. Greenfield.

Dec. 7 – The Battle of Montgomery’s Tavern

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0000

We spoke to Janet Schwartz, the Museum Coordinator at Toronto's Mackenzie House to learn more about the Battle and the Upper Canada Rebellion.

December 6 – The Halifax Explosion

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:00:00 +0000

The explosion was caused when two ships collided in the Halifax Harbour back in 1917.

December 3 – The October Crisis Ends.

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 01:00:00 +0000

British Trade Commissioner James Cross was released by members of the FLQ on this date back in 1970. We spoke with Professor William Tetley, a member of the Quebec Provincial Cabinet at the time of the crisis as well as author of "The October Crisis, 1970: An Insider's View".

Dec. 2 – Writer Robertson Davies Passes Away

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Author Robertson Davies passed away on this day in 1995 at the age of 82. To learn more we spoke with author of "Robertson Davies: an Appreciation" Elspeth Cameron.

Dec. 1 – James Naismith and Basketball

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:30:00 +0000

Back in 1891, Canadian Dr. James Naismith worked on creating the game of basketball.

Nov. 30 – General Arthur Currie Passes Away

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the first Canadian General of of the Canadian Corps, we spoke with Dr. Tim Cook author of "The Madman and the Butcher: The Sensational Wars of Sam Hughes and General Arthur Currie."

Nov. 26 – The NHL is Founded in 1917

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

We spoke with hockey historian Eric Zweig about the earliest days of the National Hockey League.

Nov. 25 – Happy 125th, Banff!

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

The federal government set aside land for park back in 1885.

Nov. 24 – The Canadian Northern Railway is Completed to Edmonton

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 22:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the railway that challenged the monopoly of the CPR, we spoke with Les Kozma, a Member of the Canadian Northern Society.

Nov. 23 – HMS Tribune Sinks

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 01:00:00 +0000

The British ship sinks in the Halifax harbour back in 1797.

Nov. 22 – Artist Jack Shadbolt Passes

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 01:15:00 +0000

Back in 1998, Canadian modern art icon Jack Shadbolt passed away at the age of 89

Nov.19 – René Lévesque Forms the Mouvement Souveraineté-Association

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 02:00:00 +0000

René Lévesque formed the Mouvement Souveraineté-Association on this date back in 1967. To learn more about Lévesque we spoke with Megan Durnford, author of "René Lévesque: The Fascinating Life of a Separatist Icon."

Nov. 18 – Introduction of Standard Time

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the introduction of Standard Time and the Canadian who proposed it, Sandford Fleming we spoke with author and Officer of the Order of Canada, Clark Blaise.

Nov. 17 – The 1999 Marshall Decision and Fishing Rights

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 21:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Dr. William Wicken, an associate professor at York University as well as author of "Mi'kmaq Treaties on Trial: History, Land and Donald Marshall Junior" to learn more about the historic Supreme Court case "R. v. Marshall."

November 16 – Louis Riel is Executed

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Louis Riel was executed on this day back in 1885. To learn more about Riel's contentious legacy we spoke with Philippe Mailhot, the Director of the Saint-Boniface Museum in Winnipeg.

Nov. 15 – Ned Hanlan becomes world champion

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:15:00 +0000

Back in 1880, Edward "Ned" Hanlan defeated E.A. Trichett of Australia for the world singles rowing championship.

November 11 – Remembrance Day

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Piet Chielens, the Coordinator of " In Flanders Fields Museum" located in Ypres, Belgium.

Nov. 10 – The Edmund Fitzgerald goes down

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Back in 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior.

Nov. 9 – The First Game of Football

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The first documented game of football was played at the University of Toronto on this day back in 1861. To learn more about the history of football in Canada I spoke with Curator of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, Meghan Sturgeon.

Nov. 8 – Viola Desmond is physically removed from theatre

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:15:00 +0000

In 1946, Viola Desmond was forcibly removed from a theatre in New Glasgow, NS for refusing to move from whites-only section.

Nov. 5 – First CBC broadcast of official time signal

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:01:00 +0000

Back in 1939, CBC first broadcasts the NRC (then Dominion Observatory) official time signal.

Nov. 4 – Inventor George Klein Passes Away

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:15:00 +0000

We spoke with Dick Bourgeois-Doyle, author of George J. Klein: the great inventor about this amazing Canadian's life and approximately 1500 inventions.

Nov. 3 – The story of Danylo Shumuk

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:15:00 +0000

This political prisoner arrived in Canada after being imprisoned for 42 years.

Nov. 2 – Compensation for sterilization victims

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Back in 1999, Alberta government announced that it would compensate 242 people who had been sterilized under the Sexual Sterilization Act.

Nov. 1 – Hungarian Immigrants in Canada

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0000

Dr. Royden Loewen of the University of Winnipeg explains to us the difference between the waves of immigrants coming to Canada from Hungary.

October 29 – The Great Depression

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 21:00:00 +0000

We spoke with University of Calgary Professor Dr. Patrick Brennan about Canada during the Great Depression.

October 28 – William Hall is awarded the VC

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

In 1859, Hall becomes the first Nova Scotian and Black Canadian to receive the Victoria Cross.

October 27 – The National Council of Women of Canada is Founded

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0000

To learn more about the 1893 founding of the NCWC, we spoke with its current president, Mary Scott.

October 25 – Leslie McFarlane is Born

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

The original author of the Hardy Boys mystery series is born back in 1902.

October 22 – Louis Riel is Born

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

To learn more about Riel we spoke with Director of the Saint-Boniface Museum in Winnipeg, Philippe Mailhot.

October 20 – Tommy Douglas was born

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Happy Tommy Douglas Day! Tommy Douglas was born on this day in 1904. To learn more about Tommy Douglas, we spoke with C. Stuart Houston, an historian and author of "Tommy's Team : the People Behind the Douglas Years". Dr. Houston is a professor emeritus of the university of Saskatchewan, and an Officer of the Order of Canada.

October 19 – St. Albans Raid

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

To learn about the most northerly land action in the American Civil War we spoke with Adam Mayers, a Journalist for the Toronto Star as well as author of "Dixie & the Dominion: Canada, the Confederacy, and the War for the Union."

October 18 – The Famous Five

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Jennifer Palmer spoke with Justice Robert Sharpe, a judge of the Court of Appeal for Ontario as well as co-author of The Persons Case: The Origins and Legacy of the Fight for Legal Personhood (with Patricia McMahon).

October 15 – Chinese Rail Workers and the CPR

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Brad Lee, the curator of The Ties That Bind, an online historical research project that works to recognize the contributions of the Chinese Canadian community to the building of Canada. http://www.mhso.ca/tiesthatbind/index.php

October 14 – SS Caribou sunk by German submarine

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

The passenger ferry was sunk off the coast of Nova Scotia back in 1942.

October 13 – 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1910, an Imperial Order in Council transferred the Naval Station at Halifax to the Canadian Government.

October 12 – Sam Hughes and General Arthur Currie

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Tim Cook, historian with the Canadian War Museum and author of The Madman and the Butcher: The Sensational Wars of Sam Hughes and General Arthur Currie.

October 8 – Multiculturalism Policies Introduced

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 01:00:00 +0000

The first ever policies regarding multiculturalism were announced on this date back in 1971.

October 7 – First concert of the NAC Orchestra

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1969, 46 nervous and excited performers stepped onstage at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa.

October 6 – Radio station opens in Aklavik, NWT

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1925, station opens in Aklavik, NWT as part of the North West Territories and Yukon Radio System.

October 5 – Laurie Skreslet becomes first Canadian to climb Everest

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1982, Laurie Skreslet became the first Canadian to reach the top of Mount Everest. Canadian Pat Morrow followed only days later.

October 4 – Pianist Glenn Gould dies

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Glenn Gould passed away on this day back in 1982. He was 50.

October 1 – Artist Paul Kane returns to Toronto

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 00:15:00 +0000

The famous Canadian painter returns to Toronto after more than two years in the West.

September 30 – Arctic explorer John Rae is born

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

John Rae is born in Scotland on this day back in 1813.

September 29 – The Aloutte 1 Launches Canada into Space

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

We spoke with astronaut Robert Thirsk: the Canadian who has spent the most time in space.

September 28 – Pierre Elliot Trudeau Passes Away

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Historian and author John English discusses the legacy of Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau, on this, the 10th anniversary of his passing.

September 27 – Stanley Park opened in Vancouver

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Park opened to public for the first time back in 1888.

September 24 – Canada Lifts Sanctions Against South Africa

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Dr. Linda Freeman, a professor at the University of Carleton.

September 23 – Mack Sennett releases first film

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1912 in New York, Quebec-born Mack Sennett releases his first Keystone Comedy film.

September 22 – Building named after Clara Brett Martin

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1989, the Ontario provincial government (temporarily) names a building after Clara Brett Martin, the first woman lawyer in the British Empire.

September 21 – The Toonie is Unveiled to the Public

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Brent Townsend is the the artist who designed the polar bear on the reverse of the Canadian two dollar coin.

September 20 – First signing of Treaty 5

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Treaty 5 is signed for the first time at Berens River, Manitoba back in 1875.

September 17 – Fire on the SS Noronic kills over 115 people

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1949, a fire on the ship kills over 115 people. The ship was docked on the shore of Lake Ontario.

September 16 – Construction begins on the Canso Causeway

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Construction begins on this day back in 1952, connecting Cape Breton Island by road to Nova Scotia

September 15 – “The Greenpeace” Sets Sail in 1971

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Historian, ecologist and co-founder of Greenpeace International, Rex Weyler discusses the early days of Greenpeace.

September 14 – Dorothea Palmer arrested for distributing information on birth control

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1936, Dorothea Palmer, was arrested in Ontario. Her eventual trial became a landmark case in the Canadian birth control movement.

September 13 – Laura Ingersoll is born

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Laura Ingersoll, later known as Laura Secord, is born on this day back in 1775. She warned British forces of an American attack in 1813.

September 10 -1939 Canada Declares War on Germany

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 00:10:00 +0000

We spoke with associate professor Pat Brennan about how WWII built Canada as a nation.

September 9 – Alexander Graham Bell creation breaks marine speed record

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

In Nova Scotia back in 1919, a hydrofoil craft co-created by Alexander Graham Bell hits 114 kms an hour, breaking the record for speed on water.

September 8 – The Children of the Klondike

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with historian and author Frances Backhouse about the birth of Dawson Klondike Schultz on Sept. 8, 1897 and the "Children of the Klondike".

September 7 – CBC Television Begins First Broadcast

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 01:30:00 +0000

We spoke with FRIENDS of Canadian Broadcasting spokesperson Ian Morrison about the launch of CBC Television.

September 6 – Launch of The Canadian Encyclopedia

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1985, The Canadian Encyclopedia is released in Edmonton, Alberta. Visit their website at www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com

September 2 – Celebrating the Discovery of the Wreckage of RMS Titanic

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Members of a joint French-American expedition celebrate the discovery of the wreckage of Titanic, which they had found on Sept. 1, 1985

September 1 – Saskatchewan and Alberta become provinces (special edition!)

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 01:30:00 +0000

Back in 1905, Saskatchewan and Alberta officially become provinces.

August 31 – (First French Episode!) Opening of the Ouimetoscope Cinema.

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

In 1907, Leo-Ernest Ouimet opens the largest theater in North America exclusively dedicated to showing movies. For more information visit www.cinemamuetquebec.ca and http://www.cinemaparlantquebec.ca. ----

August 30 – Vicki Keith becomes the first person to swim across all 5 Great Lakes

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:45:00 +0000

Back in 1988, Canadian Vicki Keith stepped onto the shore of Lake Ontario and became the first person to swim across all five of the Great Lakes.

August 27 – The beginning of the first Canadian roadtrip by car

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1912, Thomas Wilby and Jack Haney began their trip across Canada in a 1912 REO Special.

August 26 – Joseph Burr Tyrrell and the Canadian Dinosaur Rush

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Joseph Burr Tyrrell passed away on this date in 1957. We spoke with the Royal Tyrrell Museum's Don Brinkman about Tyrrell and the beginning of the Canadian Dinosaur Rush.

August 25 – Donald Marshall Sr. Passes Away

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1991, the grand chief of the Miâ€™kmaq passed away. He was a tireless advocate for aboriginal rights and justice issues.

August 24 – Execution of Canadian Soldiers During WWI

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1916, Canadian soldier Benjamin DeFehr spent his last night in custody. Come dawn, he was shot and killed by a firing squad. He was 1 of 25 Canadian soldiers executed during WWI.

August 23 – British Troops Prepare to Burn Washington

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

In 1814 British Troops descend upon Washington DC, prepared to capture the American capital. We spoke with historian and author Mark Zuehlke about the Burning of Washington and the War of 1812.

August 20 – Eaton’s Goes Bankrupt…

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

On this day back in 1999, it was announced that after nearly 130 years, the Eaton's department store was filing for bankruptcy protection.

August 19 – The Dieppe Raid of 1942

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Canada suffered over 3000 casualties on the shores of Dieppe, France on this day in 1942.

August 18 – The Dempster Highway opens in the Yukon

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Officially opened in 1979, the 730 km highway was the first Canadian highway to cross the Arctic Circle, linking southern Canada and Arctic Canada.

August 17 – First successful sailing of the Northwest Passage

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

In 1988, Canadians Jeff MacInnis and Mike Beedell successfully sail through the passage on their boat, Perception. They are the first individuals to successfully sail the passage by wind power.

August 16 – Gold Deposits are Discovered in 1896, Sparking the Klondike Gold Rush

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Charlotte Gray, a Chair of Canada's History Society as well as author of Gold Diggers: Striking it rich in the Klondike about Dawson City, Yukon at the height of the rush.

August 13 – Jacques Cartier Discovers the St. Lawrence River

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

We spoke with author and Professor at the University of Guelph, Alan Gordon, about Cartier and his 1535 "discovery".

August 12 – Hockey Legend Hayley Wickenheiser is Born

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

In 1978, five time Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser is born. More information on Hayley's Women's Hockey Festival can be found at http://wickhockey.com/.

August 11 – Revolutionary Canadian artificial heart to be manufactured and marketed

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:15:00 +0000

Back in 1993, University of Ottawa Heart Institute researchers announce plans to manufacture and market the world's first permanent artificial heart. Known as the Electrohydraulic Ventricular Assist Device (EVAD), the artificial heart could be implanted entirely in the body and was the first of its kind. We spoke with Dr. Tofy Mussivand.

August 10 – Canadian Bill of Rights Enacted in 1960

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

We spoke with Linda McKay-Panos, the Executive Director of the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre, about the Canadian Bill of Rights.

August 9 – Wayne Gretzky is Traded from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Dr. David Mills discusses Wayne Gretzky's 1988 Trade from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings.

August 6 – Macdonald and The Double Shuffle

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1858 in the Province of Canada, the Cartier/Macdonald ministry pull the "The Double Shuffle", avoiding a by-election and staying in power.

August 5 – Sir Humphrey Gilbert Claims Part of Newfoundland for Britain

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000

We spoke with historian Josh Tavenor about Sir Humphrey Gilbert's 1583 claim of the land surrounding what is now St. John's, Newfoundland.

August 4 – Fire breaks-out in the Library of Parliament

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1952, fire damages Canada's Library of Parliament.

August 3 – William Avery Bishop is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:15:00 +0000

World War I flying ace "Billy" Bishop is awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for service.

July 30 – Mark Tewskbury Wins Gold

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

We spoke with Mark Tewskbury about his gold medal win at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

July 29 – James Shaver Woodsworth was born

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1874, social activist and first leader of the CCF, J.S. Woodsworth was born.

July 28 – R.B. Bennett’s Conservative Party wins the 1930 election

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

John Boyko, the Dean of History and Social Science at Lakefield School in Ontario, as well as author of "Bennett: The Rebel Who Challenged and Changed a Nation" discusses the legacy of Prime Minister R.B. Bennett.

July 27 – Insulin isolated at the U of T

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Fredrick Banting and Charles Best isolate insulin from the pancreas of a dog. With the help of JJR Macleod and James Collip, the group would go on to treat human sufferers of diabetes.

July 26 – French surrender Louisbourg

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1758, French forces surrendered the Fortress of Louisbourg after a 7 week siege by the British.

July 23 – The Komagata Maru Leaves Vancouver

Sat, 23 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

On July 23, 1914 a steamship filled with passengers from India, The Komagata Maru, was turned away from Canadian shores. We spoke with Dr. Hugh Johnston on the incident and its legacy.

July 22 – Alexander Mackenzie Reaches the Pacific

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back in 1793, Alexander Mackenzie and company reach the Pacific Ocean, Mackenzie makes mark.

July 21 – Marshall McLuhan’s Birthday

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

We spoke with Terrence Gordon, the author of four books about Marshall McLuhan, including a biography and most recently McLuhan: A Guide for the Perplexed. He has also edited new editions of four of McLuhan's works.

July 20 – 19th Century Worker Bees

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Dr. Catharine Wilson discusses Ontario's 19th Century Worker Bees (not that kind of bee). Dr. Wilson's research on worker bee's is funded by the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

July 19 – The 1976 Montreal Olympics

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Paul Charles Howell, author and key player in the Montreal Olympic Organizing Committee discusses the legacy of the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

July 16 – Dr. Emily Howard Stowe Receives Medical Licence

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Cheryl Krasnick Warsh discusses Dr. Emily Howard Stowe and the history of women physicians in Canada.

July 15 – Canada officially takes control of Rupert’s Land

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Back on July 15th, 1870, Canada officially takes control of the area known as Rupert's Land. The Hudson's Bay Company was originally granted the land 200 years earlier, back in 1670.

July 14 – The Death Penalty is Abolished in Canada

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Robert J. Hoshowsky author of "The Last to Die: Ronald Turpin, Arthur Lucas, and the End of Capital Punishment in Canada" discusses the end of the death penalty in Canada.

July 13 – Tenancy in 19th Century Ontario

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Dr. Catharine A. Wilson discusses the significance of land tenancy in 19th Century Ontario.

July 12 – Pierre Berton’s Birthday

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Canadian Pierre Berton was born on July 12, 1920.

July 9 – First Chuckwagon Race

Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

The first official chuckwagon race takes place in Calgary back in 1923.

July 8 – The Disappearance of Tom Thomson

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Roy MacGregor, author of â€œCanoe Lakeâ€ discusses the disappearance of the now-famous Canadian painter back in 1917.

July 7 – Norman Bethune

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

July 7th, 1937 was a big day for Dr. Norman Bethune. Larry Hannant explains...

July 6 – Birth of George “Chief” Armstrong

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:15:00 +0000

Professor David Mills discusses the career and significance of Canadian professional hockey player George Edward "Chief" Armstrong

July 5 – No. 2 Construction Battalion

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 08:00:00 +0000

The creation of the first all-Black Canadian battalion in WWI.

One Year Anniversary

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 10:00:00 +0000

Joe and Marc would like to thank everyone involved in making Today in Canadian History a success.

July 2 – The Battle of the Somme

Sat, 02 Jul 2011 07:30:00 +0000

Christine Leppard discusses Canada's involvement in The Battle of the Somme.

July 1 – Canada Day!

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 09:30:00 +0000

Dr. Matthew Barlow discusses the historical significance of Canada Day. Happy Canada Day everyone!

June 30 – The Chinese Exclusion Act

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 14:00:00 +0000

The Chinese Immigration Act was passed on this day back in 1923. To learn more we spoke with Britt Braaten, the Curator and Manager of the Multicultural History Society of Ontario.

June 29 – Thoroughbred Horse Racing in Canada

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000

Queen Elizabeth II was in Toronto to attend the 99th annual Queen's Plate at Woodbine. To learn more we spoke with Louis Cauz, the Managing Director at the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame as well as the author of "The Plate: 150 Years of Royal Tradition from Don Juan to the 2009 Winner".

June 28 – Chinese Canadians and the Prairie West

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Dr. Royden Loewen of the University of Winnipeg spoke to us about the stories of Yee Clun of Regina and Rosie's Restaurant in Calgary. Dr. Loewen is the co-author of "Immigrants in Prairie Cities".

June 27 – O Canada Officially Adopted

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

In 1980, the National Anthem Act was adopted by Parliament.

June 24 – 1968 Saint-Jean Baptiste Day

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000

Today is La Fête nationale du Québec. To learn more about the infamous 1968 Saint-Jean Baptiste Day we spoke with official Pierre Elliot Trudeau biographer and author of "Just Watch Me: The Life of Pierre Elliott Trudeau Vol. 2: 1968-2000".

June 22 – Dief the Chief Becomes Prime Minister

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Dr. Michael Atkinson, the Executive Director of the Diefenbaker Canada Centre at the University of Saskatchewan to learn more about Diefenbaker's six years as PM. Diefenbaker served his second day as PM on this date back in 1957.

June 21 – National Aboriginal Day – Treaty 8

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Extended episode for National Aboriginal Day. Discussion on Treaty 8, signed back in 1899.

June 20 – National Library of Canada Opens

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Lester B. Pearson opened the Canadian institution in Ottawa in 1967.

June 17 – Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Lunenburg's first church service was held by settlers on this day back in 1753.

June 16 – Saskatchewan Wakes up to a Socialist Government

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:00:00 +0000

The Saskatchewan branch of the CCF defeated the Liberals in an election on June 15, 1944, making Tommy Douglas Premier. To learn more we spoke with C. Stuart Houston, the author of "Tommy's Team: The People Behind the Douglas Years".

June 15 – Herman ‘Jackrabbit’ Smith-Johannsen

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:00 +0000

The ski pioneer was born on this day back in 1875 in Norway. We spoke with his grandson, Peter Austin.

June 14 – Province of Canada’s First Parliament

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Back in 1841, preparations were being made in Kingston for the first parliament, held June 15th.

June 13 – The Last Fatal Duel

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Upper Canada's last fatal duel happened on June 13, 1833 in Perth, Ontario. To learn more we spoke with John Fowler, the Chair of the Perth Historical Society.

June 9 – The Politics of The Great Depression

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:00:00 +0000

RB Bennett and Mackenzie King sparred while the 1930 election loomed. We spoke with John Boyko, the Dean of History and Social Science at Lakefield School in Ontario, as well as author of "Bennett: The Rebel Who Challenged and Changed a Nation".

June 8 – Mackenzie King Becomes Longest Serving PM

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Dr. Whitney Lackenbauer an Associate Professor and Chair in the Department of History at St. Jerome’s University in Waterloo, as well as co-editor of "Mackenzie King: Citizenship and Community."

June 7 – The Beothuk

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

This day back in 1829 was widely considered to be the first day with no living survivors of the Beothuk. We spoke with Teresa Greene, of the Beothuk institute.

June 6 – D-Day

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 07:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Dr. Desmond Morton on the anniversary of the Allies launching the invasion of Normandy back in 1944.

June 3 – Newfoundland Referendum of 1948

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0000

For more than a decade the dominion of Newfoundland was governed by a non-elected Commission of Government. We spoke with Keith Collier, a freelance writer and historian who works at the Maritime History Archive at Memorial University of Newfoundland to learn more about the referendums that decided the future of Canada's newest province.

June 2 – Stan Rogers Passes

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Musician Stan Rogers passed away on this day back in 1983.

June 1 – The Cypress HIlls Massacre

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:00:00 +0000

The Cypress Hills Massacre occurred on this date back in 1873. We spoke with Royce E. W. Pettyjohn of Fort Walsh & Cypress Hills Massacre National Historic Sites of Canada.

May 31 – Ernest Manning

Tue, 31 May 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Ernest Manning was appointed Premier of Alberta on this bate back in 1943.

April 8 – The 1875 Northwest Territories Act

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:00:00 +0000

We spoke with Randy Freeman about the significance of the Act, passed back in 1875.

Feb. 25 – “A State of the Union” Episode

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Stay tuned all the way until the end for your fill of Canadiana goodness!

Holiday Episode “The Toonie is Unveiled to the Public”

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 01:00:00 +0000

A revisiting of our September 21st episode: Brent Townsend is the the artist who designed the polar bear on the reverse of the Canadian two dollar coin.

Holiday Episode “Vicki Keith swims across all 5 Great Lakes”

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 01:00:00 +0000

A revisiting of our August 30th episode: Back in 1988, Canadian Vicki Keith stepped onto the shore of Lake Ontario and became the first person to swim across all five of the Great Lakes.

Holiday Episode “Mark Tewskbury Wins Gold”

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 01:00:00 +0000

A revisiting of our July 30th episode: We spoke with Mark Tewskbury about his gold medal win at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

Holiday Episode “Fire in the Library of Parliament”

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 10:00:00 +0000

A revisiting of our August 4th episode: Back in 1952, fire damages Canada's Library of Parliament.

Holiday Episode “Macdonald and the Double Shuffle”

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:00:00 +0000

A revisiting of August 6th: Back in 1858 the Province of Canada, the Cartier/Macdonald ministry pull "The Double Shuffle", avoiding a by-election and staying in power.

Holiday Episode “George Armstrong”

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 10:00:00 +0000

A re-visiting of July 6t: Professor David Mills discusses the career and significance of Canadian professional hockey player George Edward "Chief" Armstrong.

Dec. 10 – Happy Holidays!

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 09:00:00 +0000

We will be back with all new episodes starting in the new year. Until then, enjoy some of our over 100 episodes.

October 26 – Special Funding Drive Episode!

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 03:00:00 +0000

Please show your support by going to www.cjsw.com

October 21 – Special Funding Drive Edition!

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 00:15:00 +0000

CJSW launches it's funding drive tomorrow. Please go to cjsw.com for more information.

Welcome to Today in Canadian History!

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 07:00:00 +0000

Executive producers Marc Affeld and Joe Burima introduce the series.