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Canada is a country with a lot to be proud of. From coast to coast, there have been many milestones that show what being Canadian is all about. These moments tell stories of bravery, kindness, and new ideas.
Let's take a look at 12 important events in history that remind us why being Canadian is something special.
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1. The golden goal
Any Olympic win is something to be excited about. But a gold medal in your national sport while your country is hosting? That's something special ... and it's exactly what happened during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics.
Stomachs dropped and arms flew to the air when Sydney Crosby scored the winning goal for Canada seven minutes into overtime.
2. The Marathon Of Hope
Every September, Canadians of all ages get together to walk in honour of Terry Fox.
Terry began this tradition when he set out to run across Canada to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. While he passed away before completing his goal, we still carry on his legacy through marathons and walks every year.
3. The Highway Of Heroes
There's a stretch of highway along the 401 known as the Highway of Heroes. This is where fallen soldiers travel from CFB Trenton to the coroner's office in Toronto.
It's on this path that Canadians can pay respects and honour soldiers who gave their life to protect us.
4. The 1972 Summit Series
While some of us may not remember this series or have even been alive at the time, for others it remains a symbol of true Canadian spirit in a time of conflict amid the Cold War.
That moment when Canada came from behind in the final game against the Soviet Union, winning with little over 30 seconds on the clock, shook the nation and became one of the most famous goals in hockey history.
5. Blue Jays back-to-back World Series wins
Yeah ... it's another sports entry, but it just wouldn’t be right to leave it off the list of important events in Canadian history.
The Toronto Blue Jays are Canada’s only Major League baseball team, and their back-to-back World Series wins in '92 and '93 are an integral part of Canadian baseball. Say it with me "Touch 'em all, Joe!"
6. Newfoundland taking in diverted planes on 9/11
The tragedy on September 11th, 2001 immediately shut down airspace and forced planes to land, leaving many stranded in the sky.
The tiny airport in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland took in 38 wide-bodied planes and the 10,000 residents of Gander took immediate action to help the stranded travelers, helping our neighbours when they needed it most.
7. Ski coach helps competitor finish the race
During the 2014 Winter Olympics Justin Wadsworth (the head cross-country ski coach) came to the aid of a Russian skier who broke his ski after a fall. Wadsworth ran to the athlete with an extra ski in hand and fixed it onto the skier’s boot, allowing him to finish the race with dignity.
8. The Snowbirds
The Snowbirds are Canada's military air show flight demonstration team that showcases the skill, professionalism, and teamwork of Canadian Forces personnel. No matter where they are across the nation, they draw a crowd, proving that they can make memories that instill pride in every citizen.
9. The Tragically Hip's final concert
In May 2016, legendary Canadian singer Gord Downie from the Tragically Hip announced that he had terminal brain cancer. Nevertheless, he decided to put on one last tour, with the final concert taking place in Kingston, Ontario on August 20th, 2016.
The concert was broadcast live on CBC, and 11.7 million Canadians tuned in. There was an overwhelming sense of unity felt across the country that night, as we all watched Canada's band go out on their terms.
10. The invention of insulin
The discovery of insulin by Canadian scientists Sir Frederick Banting and Charles Best revolutionized the treatment of diabetes, saving countless lives worldwide. This medical breakthrough serves as a testament to Canada's contribution to global healthcare advancements.
11. Toronto Raptors' NBA Finals victory
The Toronto Raptors' historic victory in the 2019 NBA Finals united Canadians across the nation. Their championship win not only showcased Canada's passion for sports but also highlighted the country's ability to compete at the highest level on the global stage.
12. Chris Hadfield
Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield travelled to space in 1995 and then again in 2001 to help install the Canadarm2. But he gained international recognition during his mission on the International Space Station (ISS) from 2012 to 2013. During this time, he engaged with the public through social media, shared captivating images, and even performed music in space, fostering a sense of wonder and a growing interest in space.
These are just a few of the many important events in Canadian history. Canada's diverse achievements, contributions, and values have shaped its identity as a nation on the global stage.
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