Canada: Its People, History, and Government

Who could have guessed that a furry fashion fad would give birth to the second largest country in the world? With beaver pelt hats all the rage in late 16th century Europe, the teeming-with-wildlife forests of Canada attracted waves of French trappers whose initial settlements would eventually lead to full-scale colonization by both France and England (in fact, even today, while Canada looks to Queen Elizabeth as her sovereign, the country remains officially bilingual). Canada: Its People, History, and Government is a solid, basic overview, concentrating--despite the title--more on people and history than government. Sporting excellent cinematography, solid editing, clear graphics and maps, a well-paced script, and good accompanying materials, this would make a fine addition to a social studies curriculum. Recommended. Aud: I, J. (E. Gieschen)