What solutions did Canada implement to combat the Great Depression?

Canada implemented several solutions to combat the Great Depression, including public works projects, relief camps, and economic reforms.

In response to the Great Depression, the Canadian government initiated a series of measures aimed at stimulating the economy and providing relief to those most affected by the economic downturn. One of the primary strategies was the implementation of public works projects. These projects, which included the construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, were designed to create jobs and stimulate economic activity. The government funded these projects through a combination of public and private investment, with the aim of boosting employment and injecting money into the economy.

Another significant measure was the establishment of relief camps for unemployed men. These camps were set up across the country and provided food, shelter, and a small wage in return for manual labour. The camps were controversial, however, as they were seen by many as a way of controlling and segregating the unemployed, rather than a genuine attempt to alleviate their hardship.

In addition to these direct interventions, the Canadian government also implemented a series of economic reforms designed to stabilise the economy and prevent future depressions. These included the introduction of new banking regulations, the creation of a central bank, and the implementation of policies designed to control inflation and stabilise the currency.

The government also sought to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on the United States, which was seen as a major factor in the severity of the Depression in Canada. This involved promoting domestic industries and implementing protectionist trade policies.

However, it's important to note that these measures were not universally successful, and the Great Depression continued to have a significant impact on Canada throughout the 1930s. The public works projects, while providing some relief, were not sufficient to fully offset the massive job losses caused by the Depression. The relief camps, meanwhile, were widely criticised and led to significant social unrest. The economic reforms, while important in the long term, did little to alleviate the immediate suffering of those affected by the Depression.