Knowra Canadian federalism Canadian federalism Canadian federalism divides constitutional authority between the federal Parliament and provincial legislatures, with courts interpreting their powers. Its structure was established by the Constitution Act, 1867.
Constitution Act, 1867 : The statute that created the Dominion of Canada and allocated legislative powers between federal and provincial governments. Its sections 91 and 92 set out the central division of legislative authority.
Canadian Confederation : The political union of British North American colonies that created the Dominion of Canada in 1867. Confederation established the federal system and its first provincial divisions.
Canadian constitutional monarchy : A system in which Canada’s monarch is head of state and exercises constitutional functions through Canadian institutions. It describes Canada’s form of state, distinct from its federal division of powers.
Quebec nationalism : A political movement emphasizing the distinct identity, interests, or self-government of Quebec and its Francophone majority. Quebec’s demands for autonomy have repeatedly tested the federation’s capacity to accommodate national difference.
Section 91 of the Constitution Act, 1867 : The constitutional provision assigning enumerated powers and residual authority to Canada’s federal Parliament. It defines the federal side of the distribution of powers.
Quebec Conference, 1864 : A 1864 meeting where delegates from British North American colonies developed proposals for Canadian union. Its resolutions shaped the federal structure later enacted in 1867.
Unitary state : A state in which ultimate constitutional authority rests with the central government, which may delegate powers to regional units. Unlike a unitary state, Canadian provinces possess constitutionally protected legislative powers.
Meech Lake Accord : A 1987 constitutional accord that proposed changes to secure Quebec’s acceptance of the Constitution Act, 1982, but failed to take effect. Its failure exposed deep disagreements over recognition and constitutional reform.
Section 92 of the Constitution Act, 1867 : The constitutional provision assigning specified areas of legislative authority to provincial legislatures. It names major provincial powers, including property and civil rights and local matters.
John A. Macdonald : A Canadian statesman who became the first prime minister of Canada in 1867. He favored a strong central government in the federation negotiated at Confederation.
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