Canadians: I Need Your Help!

Bond · 09-12-2009, 08:36 PM

So, I am doing a presentation in one of my business classes this week on "The Canadian Backpack and Flag."

My assigned reading claims Canadians often sew your national flag onto backpacks as a showing of pride, and also frequently sew the flag onto other apparel. I am wondering if this is true or not?

If possible, I would also like your view on Canadian nationalism: how you view your country, your perception of your country, etc.

If you could also give me your view on American and Canadian-American relations that would be great as well.

I've read a lot of academic pieces by Americans on Canadian culture, but I really wanted a first-hand knowledge of your culture.

Witty comments would be the best.

Swan · 09-12-2009, 08:38 PM

The reason we do that is because people prefer to mug Americans.

Combine 017 · 09-12-2009, 08:43 PM

Quit stealing our water and trees you yankee bastards.
I view my country as "better than your country". No particular reason, just because.

Bond · 09-12-2009, 08:51 PM

Those are good, but I could use some more substantive comments as well!

Vampyr · 09-12-2009, 11:17 PM

I like to think of Canada as America's hat.

Teuthida · 09-13-2009, 03:45 AM

I've heard of instances a couple years ago that some Americans would wear those backpacks when traveling overseas so people would be nicer to them.

Typhoid · 09-13-2009, 03:53 AM

I've never internationally travelled, but what Ive heard from those who have, is the reason we sew our flag on our bags is honestly not only pride - but so we don't get confused with Americans. It's much better to be a Canadian in Europe, than an American, or so I'm told.

I would also like to say, there is a giant misconception with Canadian nationalism. We're as, if not more nationalistic than Americans are (At least with the older generations). If you go to any small town in Canada, you will see a Canadian flag on every corner, every school, every everything. Even in the big cities, we have flags everywhere. Constant reminders of being Canadian. I am, however sure it's like that everywhere in North America (to the respective country).

I personally, love Canada. Clearly, being Canadian, it seems self-evident. I thionk we have a very strong culture in ways such as hockey, lacrosse, being multi-cultural in English and French. quite enjoy our laid back nature to war, and our tolerance to world events. I like the fact we don't go to jail for smoking pot, not only because I smoke pot, but because I view pot less devastating than alcohol or kidnapping.

I think Canadian-American relations are really good considering the world. I mean sure there are the few lumber debates, and pollution conversations, and pressure from you in the south that we make pot illegal, but other than that there is little to no problems between our countries on a serious scale. We are, in the best example of the world, a "Brother and brother" scenario. You don't always get along, but you'll always have the others back - typically.

Canadian culture is really stolen, depending on the area you're in. Canada is a giant mesh of different cultures. Widespread, we definitely have hockey and lacrosse. In the east coast, Footbal; (CFL) Is very popular. In Vancouver, our culture is lent to us not only by typical Canadian things, but also Japanese, Chinese, and Middle Eastern because of all the immigration that's taken place. In places like Calgary and the southern parts of Alberta, it is much more like (for a crude example) Texas, as you can get in Canada. Winnipeg has a lot of Ukrainians and Native people in it, which lends to that city, and the Maritimes are almost (and frankly were) their own country altogether (Newfound wasn't a Province until 1949, before that was a part of the British commonwealth, and at the early 1900's was a seperate country altogether.) Cleary there is Quebec, which has it's whole thing going for it. Being French and all.

Frankly, I love Canada. Give me a choice to move anywhere in the world, it will be in Canada. My biggest destination to travel to? The other side of Canada. My favourite word that has each letter followed by an "a"? Canada. Sure, our country might be a mis-translation of "Kanata", the geographically-native word for "Villiage", but that's what we are.

We touch 3 oceans. We're one of the largest landmasses on Earth, and are nearly the ally of every country through sheer friendliness. We created hockey, basketball, zippers, and are the reason the White House is white. I love this place, and wouldn't trade it for a single thing.

Fox 6 · 09-13-2009, 04:16 AM

I think of Canada as America lite. All the comforts none of the hassle. I personally would display the Canadian flag if i travelled to avoid being seen as an american. I think Canada has reputation for being well liked in the international community. Canada has such a huge diversity in terms of people, geography, cultures, cities, etc that i truly believe that it is the greatest nation on earth.

Dylflon · 09-13-2009, 02:39 PM

When I went to London and Scotland, I had the Canadian flag on my backpack so I wouldn't get hassled if someone thought I was American. Although I got hassled by one guy for being Canadian so next time I'll probably forgo the flag altogether.

i'll give you some Canadian nationalism thoughts later as well.

Vampyr · 09-13-2009, 08:45 PM

I wouldn't mind living Canada. It has an interesting culture, the freedom's of America, and universal health care.

Acebot44 · 09-13-2009, 10:38 PM

Bond · 09-13-2009, 11:21 PM

Thanks for all of your input. It has been really useful in making my powerpoint (ugh).

Any views on conducting business in Canada? Canadian business traditions?

BreakABone · 09-14-2009, 01:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vampyr

I wouldn't mind living Canada. It has an interesting culture, the freedom's of America, and universal health care.

Well, it was nice knowing you Vamp... this friendship is over!

I think my stance on Canada is perfectly clear and confusing.

Dylflon · 09-14-2009, 11:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BreakABone

Well, it was nice knowing you Vamp... this friendship is over!

I think my stance on Canada is perfectly clear and confusing.

Yes, you insult and belittle our nation and its people while making two visits to us in a year and enjoying yourself immensely.

You will become one of us. It is only a matter of time.

Fox 6 · 09-14-2009, 12:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dylflon

Yes, you insult and belittle our nation and its people while making two visits to us in a year and enjoying yourself immensely.

You will become one of us. It is only a matter of time.

well we already gave him 4 of the 6 injections while he was sleeping, just one more visit.........