Canada in the 1930s

Economy and Labour

The economy involves people, businesses and governments. Together they produce, distribute and consume goods and services. Historically, Canada’s economy has relied on the extraction of natural resources, people working in different industries and trade. Economists can learn about these subjects from the perspective of microeconomics, which studies the behaviours of workers, consumers or business firms. Macroeconomics is another perspective, which investigates broader economic issues, such as employment or international trade. 

This timeline highlights different moments related to Canada’s economic and labour history. It also includes questions and links to encyclopedia articles that can help you learn more about the economic history of Canada. Scroll through the timeline to start exploring.

Canada in the 1930s

From the Great Depression to the outbreak of the Second World War, Canadians faced hardship and disruption. Government responses included work camps, economic and social legislation, and limits to immigration. By 1940, Canada had a national bank, broadcaster, film board and unemployment insurance scheme. But government help was limited and many people struggled in the “Dirty Thirties.” Canadians staged strikes and protests and joined populist political movements. Some embraced radical alternatives like fascism or communism, including those who fought in the Spanish Civil War. Artists and writers recorded and responded to these developments, embracing modernism and social realism in their work.