"The Intellectual Development of the Canadian People" by John George Bourinot is a comprehensive examination of the intellectual history of Canada. Published in 1881, the book explores the cultural, social, and political forces that have shaped the intellectual identity of the Canadian nation.
John George Bourinot was a Canadian author, civil servant, and historian who served as the Clerk of the House of Commons of Canada. In "The Intellectual Development of the Canadian People," he draws on his extensive knowledge of Canadian history and politics to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of the intellectual currents that have influenced the development of Canadian society.
The book is divided into chapters that cover different periods of Canadian history, from the colonial era to the late 19th century. Bourinot examines the contributions of key figures in Canadian intellectual life, including writers, philosophers, educators, and political leaders, and explores the impact of major historical events and movements on the nation's intellectual development.
Bourinot discusses a wide range of topics, including the influence of British and French culture on Canadian thought, the role of religion in shaping Canadian society, and the emergence of distinctively Canadian literary and artistic traditions. He also examines the impact of political and social developments, such as Confederation and the expansion of democracy, on the intellectual landscape of Canada.
Throughout the book, Bourinot emphasizes the diversity and complexity of Canadian intellectual life, highlighting the contributions of Indigenous peoples, immigrants, and marginalized groups to the nation's cultural heritage. He argues that Canada's intellectual identity is shaped by its multicultural and multilingual character, as well as its unique historical and geographical context.
"The Intellectual Development of the Canadian People" is a landmark work in Canadian intellectual history, offering readers a rich and insightful exploration of the ideas, values, and debates that have animated Canadian society. Bourinot's scholarship and erudition continue to inform and inspire historians, scholars, and readers interested in understanding the intellectual foundations of the Canadian nation.
