186k views
2 votes
What caused the Conscription Crisis during WW2?

User Sharice
by
8.5k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

The Conscription Crisis during WW2 was caused by factors such as civilian discontent, lack of confidence in the armies, conscientious objection, questioning of imperial glory, and differences in enthusiasm between English and French Canadians.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Conscription Crisis during WW2 was caused by several factors. As the war dragged on, civilian discontent grew, and some young men lost confidence in the national armies' ability to win battles or believed that the war was not worth risking their lives for. Other men, known as conscientious objectors, opposed fighting in wars for religious or philosophical reasons and did not wish to serve. Additionally, there was increasing questioning of the value of fighting for imperial glory in Canada. These factors led to the Conscription Crisis in 1917 when Canada had to resort to a draft to fulfill Britain's demand for troops.

The crisis was further exacerbated by the difference in enthusiasm for the war between English Canadians and French Canadians. Many English Canadians believed that Quebec was not doing its part in the war, while French Canadians, who were mostly farmers with large families, were less likely to volunteer due to their essential role in producing food for the war effort. The mention of conscription sparked protests, particularly in Quebec, and the military was called to quell a protest in Quebec City, resulting in several casualties.

In summary, the Conscription Crisis during WW2 was caused by factors such as civilian discontent, lack of confidence in the armies, conscientious objection, questioning of imperial glory, and differences in enthusiasm between English and French Canadians.

User AssamGuy
by
7.7k points

Related questions

1 answer
5 votes
131k views