Feminism (1920s – 1930s)
The feminist and women’s suffrage movements played a crucial role in advancing women’s rights, challenging the restrictive gender roles that had historically limited them. The Canadian Women’s Suffrage Association, established in the 1870s, arose in response to these long-standing injustices. In 1918, women were finally granted the right to vote in federal elections in Canada, marking a significant victory. Women continued to advocate for their rights, gaining access to education and divorce. In 1937, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, marking a monumental milestone for women in male-dominated fields.
World War II (1930s – 1940s)
World War II, one of the most devastating conflicts in history, raged from 1939 to 1945. Driven by territorial ambition and resentment toward the Treaty of Versailles, Nazi Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, igniting the war. During this time, Adolf Hitler’s regime committed atrocities, including the genocide of over six million Jews and millions of others, targeted by the Nazis’ racist ideology. The war concluded in the Pacific with the Battle of Okinawa, which ended on July 2, 1945, while Germany had surrendered earlier on May 7, 1945. These six years of turmoil reshaped the world.
Civil Rights Movement (1940s – 1950s)
The civil rights movement emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, to combat racial discrimination and promote equality for African Americans. The movement aimed to address the legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic disenfranchisement. Landmark events included the 1954 Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which ruled school segregation unconstitutional, and the 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. This movement not only transformed American society but also inspired global calls for justice and equality, highlighting the ongoing struggle against oppression.
Movies (1950s – 1960s)
The 1950s are often considered the golden age of Hollywood, with stars like Marilyn Monroe and James Dean epitomizing the era’s glamour and rebellion. Iconic films such as Rebel Without a Cause and Gentlemen Prefer Blondes continue to captivate audiences, demonstrating the lasting impact of their themes. This period also marked the rise of Elvis Presley, whose 1960 hit “It’s Now or Never” sold over 20 million copies, making it one of the best-selling singles ever. The introduction of color television was another monumental leap, transforming how audiences experienced film and television.
The Moon Landing (1960s – 1970s)
On July 20, 1969, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission achieved a historic milestone by landing astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon. Armstrong’s first step onto the lunar surface, accompanied by his famous words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” symbolized human achievement. Later that year, Apollo 12 became the second mission to reach the moon. This era marked a triumph of science and technology during the Cold War, fueling American pride and igniting a passion for STEM fields.
Walt Disney (1970s – 1980s)
In 1971, Walt Disney World opened in Orlando, Florida, expanding Disney’s influence by pairing theme parks with on-site hotels. Although Disney had debuted Disneyland in 1955, this new development solidified Disney parks as cultural icons. Disney’s rise to prominence began in the 1930s with innovative, family-friendly animated films that captured audiences nationwide. Known for its lively animation and timeless storytelling, the Disney brand remains a cherished part of many childhoods.
Indigenous History (1980s – 1990s)
In 1996, Gordon’s Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan—the last residential school in Canada—closed, symbolizing an overdue end to the government’s policy of Indigenous assimilation. Residential schools, part of a broader movement exemplified by the Indian Act, aimed to integrate Indigenous children into Western society at the expense of their culture. Recent Indigenous activism has focused on reclaiming rights, revitalizing languages and traditions, and advocating for justice and reconciliation, striving to heal from the legacies of colonialism.
The Internet Revolution (1990s – 2000s)
The advent of the internet and the launch of the iPhone opened new frontiers in technology, giving people unprecedented access to information. In 2007, Apple released the iPhone, revolutionizing communication and daily life. Social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube soon followed, allowing content creators to reach global audiences. These developments reshaped social interactions and set the stage for ongoing technological advancements that continue to impact society profoundly.
The Asian Wave (2000s – 2020s)
The Asian Wave brought Asian pop culture to the global stage in the 2010s and 2020s, with K-pop at the forefront. Known for its catchy melodies, intricate choreography, and polished aesthetics, K-pop groups like BTS and Girls’ Generation captivated international audiences. Anime also gained widespread popularity, with series like Dragon Ball Z and Attack on Titan capturing fans worldwide. Psy’s “Gangnam Style” went viral in 2012, breaking YouTube records and cementing K-pop’s influence. This wave not only reshaped global entertainment but also fostered greater appreciation for Asian cultures.
Artificial Intelligence (2020s – ?)
In recent years, artificial intelligence has advanced at an unprecedented pace. OpenAI, founded less than a decade ago, developed ChatGPT, one of the most advanced AI chatbots. By 2025, nearly 77% of devices are expected to integrate AI. Despite AI’s usefulness, some pioneers, such as Geoffrey Hinton—often called the “Godfather of AI”—have raised ethical concerns. As AI continues to evolve, it promises to shape the future, sparking both excitement and apprehension about its potential impacts on society.
Article by: Joy Anna