Mr. Speaker, Canadians have a strong and proud history. Knowledge of that history is disappearing, however. The teaching of our past, a past that reflects our traditions, values and ideas that help to reflect who we are, is disappearing.
Professor J. L. Granatstein in his new book Who Killed Canadian History points out that only 54% of high school and university graduates could name Sir John A. Macdonald as our first prime minister. Only 36% knew the year of Confederation. This is unfortunate and a reflection of the state of Canadian history being taught in our schools.
As a former teacher of Canadian history, I applaud Professor Granatstein for exposing the lack of consistent curriculum.
Canadians want more Canadian history taught in their schools. The Canadian government can act to change this disgraceful trend by providing our young people with an understanding and appreciation of our roots.
Granatstein suggests that Ottawa take an activist role by providing a subscription to every high school to a magazine such as The Beaver and National History . He also suggests that we establish a centre for Canadian history—