The Canadian Citizenship Act is passed
Canadian Citizenship Act, 1946. Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
June 27, 1946
On June 27, 1946, the Canadian government passed the Canadian Citizenship Act, which defined the terms of Canadian citizenship. Although Canadians would remain British subjects, they were now considered Canadian citizens first and foremost. The act came into effect on New Year’s Day 1947, and signified Canada’s growing sense of independence during the postwar era. The government established the criteria for Canadian citizenship in order to also promote a sense of unity among its increasingly multicultural population.
Each day for 150 days leading up to the opening of the Canadian History Hall, we’re presenting one moment among the many that have shaped our country. Discover more of Canada’s significant historical events in the new Canadian History Hall, opening July 1, 2017.