Final answer:
The Confederation in 1867 helped Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada by facilitating national defense and economic growth through a transcontinental railroad while maintaining their status within the British Empire. Canadian loyalty to Britain was evident during the American Revolution and the War of 1812, which reinforced lasting ties between Canada and the British Crown.
Step-by-step explanation:
The colonies that were helped by the Confederation in 1867 primarily included Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada, which was made up of Ontario and Quebec. This Confederation was initiated to facilitate national defense, such as during the American Revolution where most French and British Canadians remained loyal to Britain, and to build a transcontinental railroad that would improve economic prosperity and connectivity among the colonies. Moreover, the Confederation allowed these colonies to unite and govern themselves under the Dominion of Canada, though they were still part of the British Empire with the monarch as their head of state.
During the American Revolution, contrary to American expectations, Canadians did not join the revolt against Britain, and loyalty to the Crown remained strong. After the Revolution, many Loyalists from the American colonies settled in Canada to maintain their allegiance to Britain. This continued British influence and control over Canadian affairs was further reinforced during the War of 1812, when American invasions failed to cultivate any considerable uprising or support in Canada.
The establishment of Canada as a self-governing nation within the British Commonwealth, and the allegiance shown by Canadians during conflicts such as World War I, where Canadian troops supported Britain, are demonstrative of the deep-rooted ties to the British Crown that stemmed from the era of Canada's Confederation and loyalty during past conflicts.