Are We Really That Different

Are We Really That Different?

'I am Canadian, not American.' I have heard and read this statement or variations of it many times. Why is it that we feel we must distinguish ourselves as Canadian? The United States of America is one of the leading countries in development and diplomatic policies. We nit pick the things that make us just that small bit different. Like we have a lower obesity rate, do not drive as many high emission SUVs, and we did not the start the war on terrorism.

Both countries are very alike but neither agrees with this statement. Americans think that they are better than us and that the majority of Canadians want to be American. While we think that it is insulting to be called American and try our best to show our differences.

Canada and the United States are neighbours on the map and are close companions on most political views; we have gone through many of the same rebellions and revolutions and ended up at almost the same outcome. Both have English as a main language, and are democratic. Both governments are represented by people elected by the people. Both countries are made up of immigrants and ultimately have the same diverse cultures. Both have rights and freedoms for their citizens. Both rely heavily on technology, have the same icons and celebrities, we have the same clothing styles, just more layers in the winter for us Canadians. We are very much alike in all ways, and who can blame us if we live on the same continent and we were discovered by the Europeans.

Americans feel that Canadians want to be American and have felt this way since the very start. For example back in the 1800's when they tried to 'liberate' us however we fought back. We try to distinguish ourselves by being peace keepers, and spell words like colour with a 'U'. We have Free Health Care which is a lot nicer for us than having to pay for everything.