Lester B. Pearson's Impact on Canada

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Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson was a prominent figure in Canada in the 1960s. Pearson was Canada's most significant post WWII prime minister because of his government's many innovations that still benefit Canadians today. He fostered Canadian nationalism, which continues to the present day, promoted equality throughout Canada – equality that now thrives as part of Canada's identity – and he introduced many social services that are still implemented today.
First, the Pearson government took initiatives that enhance Canadian nationalism. Pearson's government introduced the current Maple Leaf Flag on February 15, 1965 (Bourdon). Before then, the flag that Canada used was the Canadian Red Ensign ("1956-1968"). That flag included the Union Jack, which French Canadians resented ("1956-1968"). The adoption of the new flag showed both Canada's independence and the importance of representing Canada as a whole. Also, Pearson adopted the current national anthem. A special joint committee of the Senate and the House of Commons was considering the status of 'God Save the Queen' and 'O Canada' ("National Anthem: O Canada"). Pearson, by a motion in the House of Commons, requested “that the government be authorized to take such steps as may be necessary to provide that “O Canada” shall be the National Anthem of Canada” ("National Anthem: O Canada"). This motion led to the establishment of our current national anthem, which Canadians are patriotic towards. In addition, Pearson promoted Canadian nationhood by creating another symbol. He replaced the system of British honours that were previously awarded to Canadians with the Order of Canada on April 17, 1967 (Bourdon). This replacement further showed Canada's independence from Great Britain ...

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...ary students by providing loans and grants to students in need ("Canada Student Loans Program"). The program was restructured in 1994, and the restructured program still provides financial assistance to post-secondary students who are in financial need, allowing more people to be educated. (Raaflaub). The social services that Pearson’s government introduced are very beneficial to the current Canadian lifestyle.
In conclusion, Pearson strengthened Canadian nationalism, promoted equality that is now an integral part to the Canadian identity, and he introduced several important social programs that continue to support Canadians. The ongoing benefits to Canadians from his contributions make him the most significant post WWII Prime Minister of Canada. Without the leadership of this influential Canadian, Canada would not be as strong a nation as it is today.

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