Why was that?

I begin the first class by playing the Canadian national anthem, O Canada.

Why would I do that? The song that became the Canadian anthem was written in Quebec City for a celebration.

The French version focuses on their heritage and protecting their homes and rights with sword and cross, while the English version evokes the land, freedom, and duty.

The history of the national anthem provides us with a greater understanding of Canadian story.

Two nations, England and France, who fought for centuries explored and eventually developed colonies in the land that we now call Canada.

While the early British colonies were founded in the maritime east for access to the plentiful fisheries, the French settlements were mainly located along the St. Lawrence River system to provide access to furs obtained in the interior.

What was the situation with the Europeans who settled Canada and the indigenous populations there?