How Canada Was Forced to Build Up Its ‘Tin-Pot’ Navy

The Pressure on Canada to Strengthen its Navy

May 3, 2024 TruthUSA

Commentary

Canada, with the world’s longest coastlines and the sixth-largest merchant navy, initially relied on the Royal Navy for protection as part of the British Empire. However, growing nationalism and international tensions in the early 20th century prompted Canada to consider defending its coastal waters.

In 1906, the launch of HMS Dreadnought by the Royal Navy revolutionized naval warfare, rendering all other battleships obsolete. This sparked a naval arms race among major powers, challenging British naval supremacy. To counter German naval expansion, Britain needed financial assistance from its colonies, including Canada.

Amid debates in Canada, politicians like Robert Borden and Wilfrid Laurier had differing views on naval defense. Eventually, the Royal Canadian Navy was established in 1910, starting with two outdated cruisers. This move faced criticism as a “tin-pot navy,” especially from Quebec, which was against joining imperial conflicts.

Despite setbacks, Canada’s naval strength grew during World War II, actively engaging in battles against German U-boats and the Japanese Empire. By 1945, Canada had one of the largest navies globally.

Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

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