Politics and History
From its beginnings, the National Film Board has tackled social and economic issues. Excerpts in this theme show how documentary film can play a part in social action.
Front of Steel
"I Just Didn't Want to Die": The 1914 Newfoundland Sealing Disaster
"Just One Big Mess": The Halifax Explosion, 1917
Land For Pioneers
On Strike: The Winnipeg General Strike, 1919
Rush for Gold - The Klondike Gold Rush, 1897
"They Didn't Starve Us Out": Industrial Cape Breton in the 1920s
Voice of Action
When Asia Speaks
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This film traces the beginning and early development of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation Radio. Specifically, students explore the role that CBC Radio played during World War II and the role it was expected to play in the future of the nation.
This lesson is designed to help students explore a) the role that CBC radio played in the building of Canada, b) radio production techniques, and c) how both spoken and written language can spur social change in developing cultural and national identity.