The Pursuit Of Canadian National Identity

Canada and the United States are the only two countries in the North American continent. Between the two countries there is a nearly 5,000 km long border, but undefended. Most people between the two countries speak the same language—English, wear similar clothing in general, eat similar foods, read the same newspapers and magazines, and watch the same TV programs. But the U.S. population is 10 times that of Canada, and GDP is 9 times, so the powerful United States affects Canada in political, economic, cultural and other aspects. With the expansion of American cultural imperialism and the invasion of American cultural products, the Canadian people feel significantly more similar to their neighbors and gradually lose their national identity, thus challenging the United States to protect the cultural identity of its people is imperative.In the first part of this paper, the author theoretically explains what is cultural imperialism and the Americanization of Canada. Then the author discusses how the Canadian government and related organizations resist the invasion of American cultural products and protect their own cultural industries. Then the author discusses the"Canadian content"policy implemented in broadcasting and television in order to protect their identity. Finally, by analyzing the national characters of Canada and the United States, the author intends to show the huge differences and uniqueness of Canadians. Thus the authors concludes, to protect their cultural industries, to promote Canadian content, and to reflect the uniqueness of people under the pressure of the United States, are the main ways to pursue and protect national identity.