Georgia Experience is great for...
Many Francophones are separatists who want Quebec to become an independent country.
They launched an independence movement beginning in the 1960s, which eventually led to
referendums in 1980 and 1995 on Quebec’s sovereignty. In both cases, Quebecers voted to
remain part of Canada. (But in 1995, the vote was realllllly close!)
Map Skills
Label the following countries on the map of Latin America.
Cuba
Colombia
Bolivia
Mexico
Venezuela
Haiti
Panama
Brazil
Quick Quiz
Identify, label
Write T for True and F for False.
1. French is the official language of Quebec.
2. French-speaking Quebecers are called Francophones.
3. French Quebecers do not care about preserving their culture.
4. Referendums on Quebec’s sovereignty were held in 1980 and 1995.
Venezuela
5. Quebecers voted to become independent from Canada in the 1995 referendum.
Colombia
Let’s Work Things Out
The government of Canada wants Quebec to remain part of its country.
Quebec contributes greatly to Canada’s economy. The province has thriving
high-tech industries, abundant natural resources, and a major shipping
channel along the St. Lawrence River. The government also fears
that a new country in the middle of Canada would disrupt the rail,
road, and water routes that connect the nation.
The Canadian federal government has tried to satisfy the separatists. In 1988, the
government passed the Canadian Multicultural Act, guaranteeing all Canadians the right to
preserve their cultural heritage. In 1998, Canada’s Supreme Court ruled that Quebec cannot
secede without the rest of the country’s consent. Stay tuned—this issue is a hot one in
cool Canada!
1. What is the largest country in
South America?
2. What is the northernmost
country in Latin America?
Great Debate
3. What country is an island just
south of Florida?
Do you think it is a good idea or a bad idea for Quebec to become independent? Explain your
answer.
Assess,
compare, draw
conclusions
©Carole Marsh/Gallopade International • www.gallopade.com • Page 15
©Carole Marsh/Gallopade International • www.gallopade.com • Page 83
~ This book is not reproducible. ~
~ This book is not reproducible. ~
Student Workbook