Sometimes the rhetoric just doesn't change...

[marct]

I'm in the middle of writing a chapter about Canadian culture (long story). I've have been tracking down the culture traits that are at the base of modern Canadian culture and, not surprisingly, I have been looking at the role of the War of 1812 in "fixing" some of these traits.

As part of this examination, I tracked down a copy of Hull's Proclamation to Canada. For some reason, the rhetoric sounded familiar:

In the name of my Country and by the authority of my Government I promise you protection to your persons, property, and rights, Remain at your homes, Pursue your peaceful and cusstomary avocations. Raise not your hands against your brethern, many of your fathers fought for the freedom & independence we now enjoy Being children therefore of the same family with us, and heirs to the same Heritage, the arrival of an army of Friends must be hailed by you with a cordial welcome, You will be emancipated from Tyranny and oppression and restored to the dignified station of freemen. Had I any doubt of eventual success I might ask your assistance but I do not. I come prepared for every contingency. I have a force which will look down all opposition and that force is but the vanguard of a much greater. If contrary to your own interest & the just expectation of my country, you should take part in the approaching contest, you will be considered and treated as enemies and the horrors, and calamities of war will Stalk before you. {emphasis added}

There is a lesson to be learned here, but my brain is too fuzzy right now to figure out what it is .

Marc

[Stan]

No white man found fighting by the Side of an Indian will be taken prisoner Instant destruction will be his Lot.

Thanks Marc !
Sounds like we didn't learn much about culture back then (either) !

Regards, Stan