Nation, Identity, Rights: Reflections on WL. Morton’s Canadian Identity

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Abstract
In his book The Canadian Identity W. L. Morton set out his conception of a Canadian political nationality through an exploration of the main themes of Canadian historical development. In doing so he stressed the idea that Canada is a nation based on "allegiance" rather than on a "covenant" which he argued is the basis of the American nation. In my analysis of Morton’s position I have pointed out some of the limitations in his understanding of nationalism in Québec and suggested that issues related to multi-culturalism and native rights have become more complex since his book was first published. I have also examined some more recent attempts to conceptualize Canadian nationalism, particularly that of Charles Taylor, and noted the threat which the re-emergence of ethnic nationalism represents to countries like Canada. l conclude that, with some modification in emphasis, Morton’s conception of "political nationality" remains essentially valid.

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