Imperfect Union: Canadian Labour and the Left - Part 1 - International Background - Canadian Roots
A look at the problematic relationship of Canadian unions and the New Democratic Party on the eve of the 1980s, as the Socialist International meets in Vancouver. This triggers a flashback to the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain, and the birth of both modern trade unions and democratic socialism. The influence of British, American and European immigration, of American trade unions, World War 1 and other events provide a turbulent and fascinating backdrop to the evolution of the Canadian labour-socialist alliance. Part 1.
A look at the problematic relationship of Canadian unions and the New Democratic Party on the eve of the 1980s, as the Socialist International meets in Vancouver. This triggers a flashback to the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain, and the birth of both modern trade unions and democratic socialism. The influence of British, American and European immigration, of American trade unions, World War 1 and other events provide a turbulent and fascinating backdrop to the evolution of the Canadian labour-socialist alliance. Part 1.
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directorArthur Hammond
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producerArthur Hammond
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scriptArthur Hammond
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executive producerJohn SpottonDon HopkinsJohn Taylor
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cameraJohn WalkerEugene BoykoJoan Hutton
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soundJohn UhthoffRobert YoungPeter Clements
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editingJack MorbinJohn Kramer
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sound editingAndré GalbrandJean-Pierre ViauAndré Chaput
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re-recordingHans Peter StroblAdrian Croll
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narratorJill Frappier
Warnings: References to dangerous working conditions, tobacco
How does the film present the idea that industrialization pushed forward some socialist ideas and eventually union politics? What opinions or ideas about immigration are highlighted in this film? How might some of these ideas be stereotypical or discriminatory in nature? Whose voices are missing from this film? Who else should have been considered when assessing the beginning politics of unions and working conditions in Canada? What differences between Canadian and American government and ideals are outlined in this film? Do you think these statements hold true today?
More educational content
Imperfect Union: Canadian Labour and the Left - Part 1 - International Background - Canadian Roots, Arthur Hammond, provided by the National Film Board of Canada