The Complex Dynamics of Colonial Legacies in Canada and Britain: Examining Racism and the Treatment of Indigenous and Poor Children
The Complex Dynamics of Colonial Legacies in Canada and Britain: Examining Racism and the Treatment of Indigenous and Poor Children
Introduction
The British Empire's treatment of Native Americans has often been scrutinized, prompting questions about the reasons behind Canada's failure to continue its traditions of care. This piece delves into the historical contexts of colonial legacies in both Britain and Canada, focusing on the treatment of poor and indigenous children, and the legacies of racism that persist in both societies.
Colonial Legacies and the Treatment of Indigenous Children
The British Empire's legacy includes a history of mistreatment of indigenous populations. One example is the Canadian Residential Schools, a system established in the late 19th century to assimilate indigenous children. However, what often goes unnoticed is that the British Empire dealt with their own poor children in similar ways before and during the period when residential schools were active.
Britain sent over 100,000 children from the slums of urban cities to Canada between 1860 and 1948, where they were placed on farms as part of a program known as the British Home Children. These children were referred to as "orphans," though many had living parents who simply could not afford to support them. This practice extended to Australia, leading to similar conditions and fates for children sent there.
The Dark History of British Home Children
The treatment of these children was often harsh and devoid of proper care. Many of them faced poor living conditions, malnutrition, and exploitation. Sadly, about 10,000 British Home Children perished due to unknown causes and were buried in unmarked graves. This practice was not unique to Canada; similar cases occurred in the United States, Ireland, and even in Britain itself. One school in England is believed to contain 33,000 unmarked graves, with no records of the individuals buried there.
The lack of proper medical care during these times was a significant contributing factor. Epidemics and diseases claimed many lives, and the bodies were often buried in mass graves. It was not until the advent of vaccines that children had a decent chance of survival to adulthood.
Comparing Treatment in Canada and Britain
It is important to understand that while Canada's Residential Schools are often criticized, a similar level of neglect and mistreatment existed in Britain during the same period. This can be seen in the British Ragged Schools, which were institutions established to educate and care for poor children. These schools, like the Canadian Residential Schools, often offered inadequate conditions and treatment, reflecting the British view of their own underprivileged populations.
The forced repatriation of indigenous leaders like Sitting Bull further highlights the complex dynamics of colonial legacies. Sitting Bull sought refuge in Canada to escape betrayal by American soldiers but was later tricked by Canadian authorities, leading to his tragic end. This event underscores the unclear and often oppressive nature of colonial policies towards indigenous people in both nations.
Conclusion: Legacies of Racism and Inequality
Both the British and Canadian colonial legacies highlight deep-rooted issues of racism and inequality. The treatment of poor children through various programs reflects systemic neglect and a failure to prioritize their well-being. Understanding these historical events helps us to critically examine contemporary racial and social issues and work towards addressing them.