| Immigration
boomed during the period leading up to World War, reaching a peak in 1913,
at more than 400,000.
Immigration has
fluctuated over the years, depending on pressures abroad and Canada's
needs. After a lull during the Depression and Second World War, many
Europeans displaced by war and persecution settled in Canada.
1947
The first Canadian Citizenship Act took effect
January 1, 1947, creating Canadian citizenship. Before that, Canadians
were British subjects.
1967
A more liberal immigration policy eliminated
discrimination based on race, religion or national origin. The
government introduced the point system for independent immigrants, based
on their ability to contribute to the Canadian economy.
1969
Canada signed the 1951 Convention relating to the
Status of Refugees (Geneva Convention) and its 1967 Protocol,
guaranteeing protection for refugees on its territory.
1976
The current Immigration Act was drafted, and
proclaimed in 1978. Today's immigration policy is based on this act and
subsequent amendments.
1977
The current Citizenship Act was passed.
1978
Canada began resettling thousands of Vietnamese boat
people.
1980s
Canada accepted growing numbers of people fleeing
oppression and civil war in countries such as El Salvador and Chile.
1990s
Immigration levels have been set at more than 200,000
throughout the decade. Immigration from Asia has increased in recent
years.
1998
In January 1998, the Legislative Review Committee
suggested changes to the Immigration Act and Regulations,
based on consultations with Canadians during 1997.
1999
In the spring
of 1999, Canadians welcomed more than 5000 refugees from Kosovo, under
an emergency evacuation program. |
