Web Hosting by Netfirms | Free Domain Names by Netfirms

CanHistory

Diefenbaker, NORAD – Really?
by Susan Eskdale

Diefenbaker made some controversial decisions in his time and joining NORAD was one of the biggest.

John Diefenbaker was perhaps one of the most memorable Prime Ministers in Canada’s history. Many remember him for his contributions to the Canadian identity while others can still rehash the incidents where they felt Diefenbaker made costly mistakes.

Initially John Diefenbaker was elected to the federal government by a slim minority. Canadians were ready for change and trusted that Diefenbaker’s Conservatives would provide the much-needed change from the Liberal policies of the past. March 31, 1958 the Canadian people showed an overwhelming support for the Conservatives and elected John Diefenbaker and his party in the largest ever, Conservative majority in Canada’s history.

Diefenbaker’s government started out on a high note with the Canadian people, but his leadership would soon face many challenges for which people would either love or despise him for. It is important to remember that there is not one politician, in our history or in the future, that will not be exposed to criticisms in addition to praises.

The first real criticism that hit the Diefenbaker government was in 1957 when he decided to join the United States in an integrated North American air defence system. The biggest issue was Diefenbaker’s decision to join the United States without first consulting the cabinet to ensure the move would be appropriate for Canada. It is an understatement to say this was a mistake. Leaders of political parties should never make decisions unilaterally; it is always prudent for there to be a discussion to ensure all aspects have been thought through.

In the fall of 1957 question period alerted Diefenbaker to the potential political issues his decision would open the Conservative government and the Canadian people. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Diefenbaker visited President Eisenhower and had him confirm that NORAD would only be activated upon the input of both Canada and the United States.

Despite his attempts to placate members of government and the press, it was still felt that the NORAD agreement sacrificed Canada’s sovereignty. Diefenbaker was always elusive when dealing with the question of NORAD and even claimed that it was a fulfilment of the former Liberal government’s mandate. It would appear that he was also aware that he could put the Canadian people at ease by tying NORAD into NATO, an already well known and respected institution.

John Diefenbaker still had many opportunities to redeem himself in the eyes of the Canadian public. Without a doubt, Diefenbaker would continue to have controversial platforms and policies. What would Canada have been without the NORAD issue?