Newfoundland:
- Early Economic Success: Newfoundland was Britain's oldest colony. It became a self-governing dominion in 1907 and experienced a "golden age" under Prime Minister Sir Robert Bond. The island had a thriving fishing industry, with the Grand Banks being the world's largest source of cod.
- WWI and Debt: Newfoundland's participation in World War I, including raising its own regiment, led to significant war debt. The regiment suffered heavy losses, such as the 90 percent casualty rate at Beaumont Hamel. The cost of maintaining a trans-island railway also added to the debt.
- Economic Struggles and Corruption: In the 1920s, Newfoundland experienced political scandals and corruption, with Prime Minister Sir Richard Squires arrested on corruption charges. The country was also hit hard by the Great Depression, which caused prices to plunge for fish, its main export. There was also a general dissatisfaction with the democratic government.
- Loss of Self-Government: Economic hardship and distrust of politicians led to the end of self-government. In 1932, a crowd of 10,000 people marched on the Colonial Building, forcing Prime Minister Squires to flee. The government, led by Frederick Alderdice, requested the British government to take direct control. In 1933, the Newfoundland Royal Commission recommended that the country give up self-government temporarily and be administered by a British appointed commission. In 1934, Newfoundland became the only dominion to give up its self-governing status. The Commission of Government took control, administering the country without elections.
- Commission of Government: The Commission of Government, appointed by the British, took control in 1934 and lasted until 1949. The six appointed commissioners administered the country, and no elections were held. While this was meant to provide a "rest from politics" and a government free of corruption, agitation began to end the commission once prosperity returned during the war.
- Confederation with Canada: In 1945, Britain announced a Newfoundland National Convention to advise on constitutional choices. Options included union with the United States, return to dominion status, or continuation of the Commission. Britain rejected the option of union with the U.S. and Canada cooperated with Britain to keep that option off the referendum. Newfoundlanders voted in referendums to join Canada as a province in 1948. Newfoundland officially joined Canada in 1949.
- Cod Fishery Collapse: The collapse of the Atlantic cod fishery in the 1990s had a major impact on the province. In 1992, the Canadian government declared a moratorium on the cod fishery due to declining catches. The economic impact was significant, with many rural communities facing a sudden exodus.
- Modern Challenges: Newfoundland and Labrador continue to face economic challenges, including high unemployment and emigration. However, there has been a renewed interest in the oil sector, which has helped revitalize the economy. Nationalist sentiment remains a powerful force in Newfoundland politics and culture.
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