Canada and the First World War

Canada's Answer
Canada's Answer
English marine artist Norman Wilkinson painted Canada's First Contingent leaving Canada in October 1914. Over 32,000 Canadian and Newfoundland soldiers sailed to Britain in 30 passenger liners. At the time, it was the single largest group of Canadians ever to sail from Canada.

Canada's Answer
Painted by Lieutenant Commander Norman Wilkinson
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-0791

Sea War

Canada had a small and insignificant navy before the war, but this expanded during the conflict. Learn about the early days of the Canadian navy and the growing threat of Germany's navy.


The Royal Canadian Navy
U-Boat Threat
East Coast Sea Battles