The Greatest Canadian?

[Melinda]

I haven't been watching this on TV but I have been following it online. They released the top 10.

Frederick Banting
Alexander Graham Bell
Don Cherry
Tommy Douglas
Terry Fox
Wayne Gretzky
Sir John A. Macdonald
Lester B. Pearson
David Suzuki
Pierre Elliott Trudeau

(Go to www.thegreatestcanadian.com to get some info on all of these people if you dont know who they are or what they've done)

Do you agree with this list? I honestly think Don Cherry and Wayne Gretzky should be taken off that list and replaced with people like John MacRae, Robert Munsch, Shel Silverstien or Guy Wedick (who didn't even make the top 100, but he is mostly a calgarian celeb)

Out of the top 10, I'd probably pick Frederick Banting or Terry Fox as my #1 pick for greatest Canadian.

Or is there anyone you think they missed on this list for the top 10? Go here: http://www.cbc.ca/greatest/greatcanadians/ to see the top 100...haha I cant believe Avril Lavigne and Pamerla Anderson made the list!

Your thoughts?

[QuasarCav]

Avril:thumbsdow

I think David suzuki should win, that is my opinion. I dont know how they are going to narrow it down. Different people mean different things to people all over canada.

[roopi]

Pamela Anderson? :D

[buh_buh]

Gretzky should definately be up there.
Don Cherry should not.

[FiveFreshFish]

It's a popularity contest.

[ninjak84]

Greatest Canadian? So weak....
I think the whole idea is stupid as hell!

Seriously, we have something like 26 million people in the country, and only around 10,000 people even voted. Shows how many real people actually care. It's a shameful attempt to bring in ratings and boost our "nationalism level".

I've been frustrated by the idea since I first saw the commercials a year ago.....

[/vent]






......but Terry Fox should win :D :rofl:

[1badPT]

I'm not on the list so therefore I think its :bullshit:

LOL Pamela Anderson :rofl: :rofl:

[buh_buh]

if it is just a ploy to boost our nationalism level, they should just start airing those Molson Canadian commercials again.:D

[A_3]

It's a dumb contest... "greatest" Canadian, I don't think you can really choose a "greatest" there have been alot of great Canadians in there specific fields but comparing an athlete to a politician..........

I'm gunna get crusified... but I think Pierre Elliott Trudeau deserves it. I know we are born in Alberta hating the guy but he did alot of amazing things during his time (not so business bright) but alot of his idea's applying to Canada were pretty amazing. Be interesting to see who wins though. :thumbsup:

[statick]

don cherry NEEDS to be taken off, if we're having ppl from the entertainment industry, i say bryan adams should be up there.
and:werd: to wut melinda said, get some good authors up on there.

[Gspotracer]

Brett Hall was nominated Least Greatest Canadian
I would have to agree

[SwitchBlade]

Pamela Anderson shouldnt be on there...






Born in canada made in the U.S.A.






Than again :hitit: :devil:

[benyl]

Palm-ala Handerson?:D :thumbsup:

[Khyron]

Jim Carrey!!!!

Khyron

[africano]

Originally posted by statick
don cherry NEEDS to be taken off, if we're having ppl from the entertainment industry, i say bryan adams should be up there.
and:werd: to wut melinda said, get some good authors up on there.


Bryan Adams once got BOO'ed off stage because he forgot the Canadian national anthem.


The guy's a disgrace:whipped:


I would've voted for Sir John A. Macdonald, simply because if it wasn't for him Canada wouldn't exist. Plus he stopped Manifest Destiny.

The Father of Confederation for sure:thumbsup:

[three.eighteen.]

Roch Voisine should be in there :rofl:

[cman]

i say take out Don Cherry and Wayne Gretzky and replace them with Louis Riel and General Romeo Dallaire

[GirlsOnFire]

I was sad to see that Nellie McClung didn't make the list, she was definitley a great Canadian, author, politican, activist, primary leader in getting women the right to vote, and a role model for the States and Great Britian.

http://www.canada-heros.com/mcclung_nellie.html

[googe]

replace don cherry with mario lemiuex

him and gretzky deserve a piece of that pie :thumbsup:

[kanjus_paki]

anything related to CRTC or CBC or anything is huge gay:guns: :thumbsdow

[Majestic12]

It's aaaalllll about Trudeau.

[Weapon_R]

Originally posted by Majestic12
It's aaaalllll about Trudeau.

What do you know about Trudeau???

I'm surprised that goof made it in the top 100, let alone the top 10!

Fact is that there are a million suggestions we can make, but I think that the top 10 list is pretty good less Trudeau and Tommy Douglas.

Trudeau was more detrimental to Canada than any prime minister ever, and Tommy Douglas formed the first socialist government in Canada...not really something deserving of a title that high...

[Redlyne_mr2]

David Suzuki has my vote. Is there anyone on that list not from easter Canada?

[Majestic12]

Originally posted by Weapon_R


Trudeau was more detrimental to Canada than any prime minister ever, and Tommy Douglas formed the first socialist government in Canada...not really something deserving of a title that high...


I'll admit I know less than I should about him, seeing how the majority of his political career took place before I was even born.

But there's no denying the effect he had on Canadians in general.. and how well-liked he is. I mean.. he was PM for what.. 16 years or something?

He had to have been doing SOMETHING right.

[Weapon_R]

Originally posted by Majestic12


He had to have been doing SOMETHING right.


You're right.

He stripped Aboriginal people of their special status.

He established the National Energy Program, which forced Alberta to sell oil at prices lower than the already-low world price, which resulted in countless lost jobs and bankrupcies in this province.

He signed a Charter of Canadian Rights and Freedoms without consulting the Quebec Premier René Levesque. The CCRF was given Royal Assent without ever having Quebec sign on.

He reduced military spending drastically, causing Canada to fall from one of the top 15 military powers in the world to completely off the charts.

He danced like a ballerina behind the Queen's back :rolleyes:

He did a LOT for us :thumbsdow

[Melinda]

Originally posted by Weapon_R
He stripped Aboriginal people of their special status.

I apologize for whoever this may offend, but the aboriginals still have 'special' status, he just took a little bit of it away. I personally think that aboriginals should be completely stripped of their 'special' status...it was more than 100 years ago that europeans came and 'took the land from the aboriginals' Now we're all canadians, why the heck should we be responsible to pay for all the crap the government gives aboriginals and pays for when we're all considered canadians now? You dont see white, asian, black and brown canadians getting a whack of money when we turn 18, do you?

Good for our former PM on that one in my opinion...

[QuasarCav]

I personally think that aboriginals should be completely stripped of their 'special' status

That is pretty shocking coming from you, I dont think Ive ever heard you say/type something like that.

In a way I agree, I dont get a new truck when I turn 18. They shouldn't bebefit from what their ancestors had to deal with.

Black people in the states are still looking for reparations, that makes more sense.

[Weapon_R]

Originally posted by Melinda

I apologize for whoever this may offend, but the aboriginals still have 'special' status, he just took a little bit of it away. I personally think that aboriginals should be completely stripped of their 'special' status...it was more than 100 years ago that europeans came and 'took the land from the aboriginals' Now we're all canadians, why the heck should we be responsible to pay for all the crap the government gives aboriginals and pays for when we're all considered canadians now? You dont see white, asian, black and brown canadians getting a whack of money when we turn 18, do you?

Good for our former PM on that one in my opinion...


Do the Japanese deserve reimbursement for their property seized during World War II?

[Weapon_R]

Originally posted by QuasarCav

In a way I agree, I dont get a new truck when I turn 18. They shouldn't bebefit from what their ancestors had to deal with.



See this is part of the misunderstanding. As recently as the 1950s, they were placed in residential schools, sexually and physically abused, and the stereotype that we all portray of them makes it impossible for them to find any type of decent job right now. Many of them are homeless and unable to function in society because of the effects of these residential schools (and unable to adjust their children into society), where the CDN government went to extremes to eradicate the "indian" out of them and assimilate them into Western culture. The poor treatment of Aboriginals today still exists - how many of you can honestly say that you have a SINGLE Aboriginal employee in your workplace that has a well paying job. NONE.

Saying that Aboriginals should be stripped is absolutely ignorant and in poor taste.

[Melinda]

Originally posted by QuasarCav
That is pretty shocking coming from you, I dont think Ive ever heard you say/type something like that.

In a way I agree, I dont get a new truck when I turn 18. They shouldn't bebefit from what their ancestors had to deal with.

Black people in the states are still looking for reparations, that makes more sense.

I'm sorry but people of various races bitch and complain all the time about how they aren't treated like everyone else and scream racism any chance they get (white people are included so i'm not singling everyone out) but why the heck should anyone be treated like everyone else when they are constantly demanding special treatment? We're all CANADIAN now, we cant change what happened decades and even centuries ago, nor did we have anything to do with it...so why the heck should we pay for it now? It's time to live in the present, not in the past.



Originally posted by Weapon_R
Do the Japanese deserve reimbursement for their property seized during World War II?
Did you take their property away? No. Should you deserve to pay for it? No. History has been pretty much made on unfair mistakes committed in the past. Even now we're going to be dealing with similar things that I'm positive people our age and our decendants will be seeking 'reimbursement' for years down the road...do I think our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren should have to be the ones to pay to reimburse anything? Hell no.

[QuasarCav]

I agree, I wasn't trying to me distasteful or rude we should start with a clean slate and be an equal group of people.

All races can be blamed or praised for making a good or bad contribution but in the end we are all Canadian. The Gov't made bad moves in the past but what gov't hasn't? If we spent all the time and money making everyone happy there would be no Canada.

[three.eighteen.]

Originally posted by Melinda


but why the heck should anyone be treated like everyone else when they are constantly demanding special treatment?

my thoughts exactly, if you wanna be like everyone else, you gotta accept the rules like everyone else, making a scene only causes you to be singled out more

[Ajay]

Originally posted by cman
i say take out Don Cherry and Wayne Gretzky and replace them with Louis Riel and General Romeo Dallaire

Both those guys were on the list of Greatest Canadians but not on the short list for the GREATEST Canadian.

Riel was number 11 and I think Dalliare was 16 or 17 so they are still considered great Canadians.

I voted for this...I think it's a good idea what CBC is doing. I don't think Don Cherry should be on that short list for the Greatest but he should still be on there. Riel in my opinion should have Cherry's place. But I voted for Terry Fox....was either going to be Terry Fox or David Suzuki that got my vote.

[3g4me]

BRYAN ADAMS is by far the greatest Canadian. :D

[davidI]

Originally posted by Weapon_R


See this is part of the misunderstanding. As recently as the 1950s, they were placed in residential schools, sexually and physically abused, and the stereotype that we all portray of them makes it impossible for them to find any type of decent job right now. Many of them are homeless and unable to function in society because of the effects of these residential schools (and unable to adjust their children into society), where the CDN government went to extremes to eradicate the "indian" out of them and assimilate them into Western culture. The poor treatment of Aboriginals today still exists - how many of you can honestly say that you have a SINGLE Aboriginal employee in your workplace that has a well paying job. NONE.

Saying that Aboriginals should be stripped is absolutely ignorant and in poor taste.

I'm going to say Gretzky for greatest Canadian just because what he does bring Canadians closer together than any politician ever has. I don't see people walking around with Team Canada jerseys with the name Trudeau on the back.

As far as the aboriginal argument. Why would you work as an aboriginal if you're more or less supported by the government? I've worked with several because a couple years ago we did renovations at Redwood Meadows golf course. The native guys we worked with were great guys but they didn't hide the fact that they lived off of and used the system for all it was worth. They're the first to tell you they have no motivation. None of the guys would work more than a couple days...and generally it was just cause they wanted cash to pick up some drugs or booze or toy. I remember one guy named Rob who was a really good shit but only worked with us for a week. He said he just wanted enough for a nice big screen and then he quit. The workers from the course we had to deal with were even worse! I'm not sure of the exact details but I believe the course is required to have a certain number of natives working for them. Whenever you set a requirement like this it's going to make them lazy as shit, as we saw. We saw their employees swimming around in the ponds and heard a story about a guy who stole a golf cart from the course, tried to drive to bragg creek to get booze and they found him and the cart in the ditch, him passed out. If I had everything provided for me I'd be the same way, where the hell is the motivation? Rob was only motivated to get a big screen. His day to day spending money was made by buying smokes on the reserve and selling them to City folk. If you don't think they have opportunity that's BS. I had a class with a Native prof and his native niece was also there. Both talked about their full ride scholarships...definately not based on their academic performance. You're right that there are stereotypes and discrimination but they only way to change that is to stop living off the system!

[Weapon_R]

Originally posted by Melinda

Did you take their property away? No. Should you deserve to pay for it? No.

Do you have any idea wtf you are talking about? No.

Using your analogy, one could argue that you don't directly pay for Aboriginals so therefore you have no right to complain.

[Melinda]

Originally posted by Weapon_R


Do you have any idea wtf you are talking about? No.

Using your analogy, one could argue that you don't directly pay for Aboriginals so therefore you have no right to complain.
Do you know me at all? No. I know that there was alot more to what happened in WW2...but how exactly is our government supposed to make it all better for the government from WW2? It was a different time back then, they assumed that the Japanese were a threat to national security so they took their land and threw them in camps. It's just as bad as hitler, slavery and countless other examples of the same kind of thing throughout history. I think they are absolutely disgusting and the people responsible for it (if they were still around) should pay some extremely dire consiquenses. I don't think that we still consider the Japanese a threat to our national security and how is money (which is probably all that the government could give them now) going to take away the pain of their ancestors?

LIFE IS NOT FAIR...do you think the government should pay reimbursement to every American with brown skin because of they way people reacted and treated them after sept 11 or the way they can sometimes be screened a little more vigerously at the airport than a white or asian person? It's the same kind of racisim and discrimination as the Japanese (and please dont go off on me about how it was worse cause the government put them in camps and took all their land, I never said it was the same situation) but it's happening now instead of 100 years ago.

[FiveFreshFish]

Originally posted by Weapon_R
He did a LOT for us :thumbsdow

Don't forget the middle-finger salute incident in 1982.

[cman]

Originally posted by Ajay


Both those guys were on the list of Greatest Canadians but not on the short list for the GREATEST Canadian.

Riel was number 11 and I think Dalliare was 16 or 17 so they are still considered great Canadians.


i know, i meant they are more deserving of "top 10" recognition than cherry and gretzky, who are of course great canadians in my mind. i guess it all depends on what the definition of great canadian is.
world contribution, contribution to canada as a country, contribution to the canadian people, a charismatic voice for the people etc.

i agree with David Suzuki or Terry Fox, Suzuki is my choice but if he were "beaten" by terry fox than thats fine by me.

[FiveFreshFish]

Out of the Top Ten, I like Alexander Graham Bell.

http://www.cbc.ca/greatest/images/thumbnails/bell.jpg

[sin]

As recently as the 1950s, they were placed in residential schools, sexually and physically abused, and the stereotype that we all portray of them... snip

this is no longer happening (the schools, abuse) and the kids who were involved with that are now past 18, and have gotten their money, so why should we keep giving money to the kids who werent abused?

as for the stereotype, all racial groups have them, and for the most part its from a group of people from that race that have shown this to be true. its really not mine or my parents fault that there were a lot of drunk indians (assuming this is the stereotype you were referring too) its the drunk indians fault, they caused the stereotype.

and dont tell me its because the "white man" brought alcohol, so its our fault. theres no way that all that alcoholism couldnt have been phased out by now. im not saying stereotyping is right by any means, but we all have stigma surrounding us, i mean for white ppl we're the only group of ppl that other groups are allowed to make fun of, so why dont we get money?

white people should get money cause were all racist, african americans should get paid cause theyre criminals, asians because theyre all in gangs, polish ppl are stupid, the brits have ugly teeth, and the french are all cowards.

i just dont see why the natives deserve the money, i dont see them having it any worse than any other group.

[A_3]

Originally posted by Weapon_R



You're right.

He stripped Aboriginal people of their special status.

He established the National Energy Program, which forced Alberta to sell oil at prices lower than the already-low world price, which resulted in countless lost jobs and bankrupcies in this province.

He signed a Charter of Canadian Rights and Freedoms without consulting the Quebec Premier René Levesque. The CCRF was given Royal Assent without ever having Quebec sign on.

He reduced military spending drastically, causing Canada to fall from one of the top 15 military powers in the world to completely off the charts.

He danced like a ballerina behind the Queen's back :rolleyes:

He did a LOT for us :thumbsdow



Pierre Elliot Trudeau created the first true multi cultural society. His idea's of tolerance in an otherwise intolerant world were revolutionary. Leaders from all over the world were envious of what he created in Canada. Trudeau was tough when he needed to be (war measures act) but otherwise very fair. He brought unity to Canada that failed to exist prior to his policies. The man poured his heart and soul into Canada. He saw us the greatest nation on earth and did all in his power to achieve that goal. I believe that is what the contest is about, it's not who is the most famous or popular Canadian it's the greatest Canadian. A person who embodied the true spirit of Canada in his/her every action. That is why my vote went towards Pierre Elliot Trudeau.

[fast95pony]

Tommy Douglas brought in our Health Care System and did a lot for women's rights.

I don't think Don Cherry should be in the top ten.I also don't think many of the music and acting celebs should be there since they all live in the States.

[Melinda]

Originally posted by fast95pony
Tommy Douglas brought in our Health Care System and did a lot for women's rights.

I don't think Don Cherry should be in the top ten.I also don't think many of the music and acting celebs should be there since they all live in the States.
Wayne Gretzki also lives in the states now.

[Def_3]

I love hockey, but Don Cherry a great Canadian? Yeah he is all about "Canadian" hockey, but cmon.......

Canada should not be represented by a big mouth, bad suit, and arrogant attitude

Just my thoughts..

[Def_3]

Originally posted by Melinda

Wayne Gretzki also lives in the states now.

half the time, he is my gf's parents next door neighbour at the kelowna summer house:thumbsup:

[A_3]

Originally posted by Melinda

Wayne Gretzky also lives in the states now.

He lives in the states to live a normal life. The man is virtually a god to most Canadians. To live life as a full time celebrity is no easy task. He is not AS well known in the states so is life retains a degree of normalness he can't obtain here. Imagine if he raised his kids here, they would get treated unrealistically and would often be exploited or used to get closer to there father. I can definetly understand why he lives in the states. I believe he still loves Canada but he's doing what is best for his family!

[PGTze]

^ :werd:

Gretzky = the shit

[jaysas_63]

haven't read any of the posts in this thread but i just need to say that it will be a sad day in canada if wayne wins...like props to him, best hockey player, but to say that the the best canadian was a man that could shoot rubber REALLY good into a net is a shame.....i really hope he does not win, and i am really disapointed that he made it to the top 10.

[davidI]

Originally posted by jaysas_63
haven't read any of the posts in this thread but i just need to say that it will be a sad day in canada if wayne wins...like props to him, best hockey player, but to say that the the best canadian was a man that could shoot rubber REALLY good into a net is a shame.....i really hope he does not win, and i am really disapointed that he made it to the top 10.

Who brings Canadians together more than him though? Who is talked about more around the watercooler? Who did Canadians spend the evening at home to watch on TV? Who represents a Canadian in a better way?

I think the amount of things Wayne has done for our country out-weighs anything political. :dunno:

[88CRX]

don cherry is an ass clown :thumbsdow

i hate how everyone always is kissing his ass about how much he knows about hockey when really he doesnt. he has the most biased maple laugh view of hockey its not even funny. i cant wait for the day that kelly hrudey(sp) takes over. blah blah blah "now listen up kids..... do this___________" blah blah blah :thumbsdow

[88CRX]

this should stir up some shit :D

lemieux > gretzky :thumbsup:

[jaysas_63]

Originally posted by davidI


Who brings Canadians together more than him though? Who is talked about more around the watercooler? Who did Canadians spend the evening at home to watch on TV? Who represents a Canadian in a better way?

I think the amount of things Wayne has done for our country out-weighs anything political. :dunno:

sry man but i couldn't disagree more, sure he is a good hockey player, hands down u win that, BUT to say that he has brought canadians together is a bold faced lie. for example do u in any way feel closer the the people of QB because of wayne, or how about the ppl of VA, has he done anything to unite you with the rest of the canadians.....no, he may have instilled a pride amoung all canadians of being proud of there hockey, but going as far to say that he has brought us together is not true........if u look at macdonald he was the one that brought us togther as a whole and created canada, the confederation of canada was primarily his doing, not to mention the CPR.......i belive to be the best person, one would have to have done something, not out of self gain, or money, but out of a love for his country......speaking of love for the country, where the fuck is he now? all i know is that wayne has had a minimal effect on my life, about the same as 50 cent, or john elway, he is just another celebrity, and i think it is a DISGRACE that one of our "greatest person" nominations are going out to a mere celebrity. i hope to see someone like trudeau, macdonald, or fox win, someone who has truly changed canada, if not the world

[A_3]

Originally posted by 88CRX
this should stir up some shit :D

lemieux > gretzky :thumbsup:

Don't know if he IS better then Gretzky due to an injury rattled career. However had he been able to play near as much as Gretzky had (especially at his peak) he would have been a better player. Lemieux had everything Gretzky had PLUS a power forwards body. He easily could have been a better player then Gretzky had his body held up. However that wasn't the case, Lemieux is a GREAT leader and is always a solid choice as captain for our national teams but he just didn't have the shot at greatness Gretzky got. Gretzky DID do more and therefore gets the title of "Mr.Hockey Canada". Anyways just my 2 cents. :thumbsup:

[davidI]

Originally posted by jaysas_63

sry man but i couldn't disagree more, sure he is a good hockey player, hands down u win that, BUT to say that he has brought canadians together is a bold faced lie.

When was the last time you high fived and hugged random Canadians in a bar because of Mcdonald? When was the last time you wore a Canadian crest on your chest because of Mcdonald? When was the last time you felt proud to be a Canadian? For me the only time I stop and think about how great it is to be Canadian is after the Canadians win the Olympics or the World Cup or any other major event.

It's funny you hate on Wayne for getting money when John A. was basically a businessman looking out for his own interests - just like any other politician. Fox did a great thing but so many others have done the same type of thing...it's just that Terry was one of the first. I'm not a fan of a lot of the things that Trudeau did as has already been touched on in this thread. By your way of thinking, whoever the first Prime Minister of Canada was would automatically be the greatest Canadian. This is a great quote to sum up how I feel about Sir John A.
"He never created Canada. He had to be convinced that it would be a good idea. It must have been a long, costly process, for Sir John A. rarely thought of much beyond his next drink. . . . It seems we like politicians who booze it up, lie to us and mistreat the poor."

Linky: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/series/primeministers/

[jaysas_63]

Originally posted by davidI


When was the last time you high fived and hugged random Canadians in a bar because of Mcdonald? When was the last time you wore a Canadian crest on your chest because of Mcdonald? When was the last time you felt proud to be a Canadian? For me the only time I stop and think about how great it is to be Canadian is after the Canadians win the Olympics or the World Cup or any other major event.

It's funny you hate on Wayne for getting money when John A. was basically a businessman looking out for his own interests - just like any other politician. Fox did a great thing but so many others have done the same type of thing...it's just that Terry was one of the first. I'm not a fan of a lot of the things that Trudeau did as has already been touched on in this thread. By your way of thinking, whoever the first Prime Minister of Canada was would automatically be the greatest Canadian. This is a great quote to sum up how I feel about Sir John A.
"He never created Canada. He had to be convinced that it would be a good idea. It must have been a long, costly process, for Sir John A. rarely thought of much beyond his next drink. . . . It seems we like politicians who booze it up, lie to us and mistreat the poor."

Linky: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/series/primeministers/


k well canada would have never gotten the chance to play at the olypics if it were not confederated by macdonald, and without his efforts to bring canada together you would not be able to feel proud of being canadian, for canada would not have existed.


to think that in order to be the greatest canadian you have to have your name written on some damn jersey is not correct in my POV, for it is not the popularity of the person which makes him great but the sacrifices he made for his country, and the dedication he has put fourth for his country. gretzky is a hockey player...THATS IT, he plays a fuckin sport, he slaps a puck around, and he does it all NOT for the love of his country, but for his LOVE OF THE SPORT, therefore wayne should be called the greatest hockey player, saying that he is the greatest canadian would be saying that canada is NOTHING more than hockey, and that hockey DEFINES us as canadians, and this is simply not true.

i don't think a PM has to win, but i would prefer the winner to be someone who has contributed LARGELY to the lives of most if not all canadians

[Weapon_R]

There is no way that anyone can discredit the fact that Gretzky is deserving of a title for being a great Canadian. He revolutionized the game, put Canada on the map, and played with the utmost integrity while still shattering every record in the books.

I don't think he should be the greatest Canadian, but he should definately be up there. Not only for his skill, but the fact that he played with integrity and respect is almost just as admirable.

I really like Sir John A. MacDonald. Yes, he wasn't perfect, but no one is. He created a National Policy which was aimed at creating a Canada (well, basically an Ontario/Quebec) that wouldn't need the Americans or Brits to stay afloat.

He also built a transcontinental railway system that spanned from Eastern Canada to the West. This is the reason we are here today.

He also purchased the West from the Hudson's Bay Company. Can you imagine how strong that company would be today if they still possessed the title to that much land?

MacDonald created a limited free trade agreement with the United States.

Last and most importantly, he created the confederation that we know live in today. He linked Canada from East to West in a common economic and political union aimed at creating a strong home domestic economy and a claim to title of the West, as the United States at the time was planning to annex the Western part of Canada, but did not reach the West before the CP railway was built to lay claim to this territory.

Great Canadian :thumbsup:

[JustinL]

Originally posted by Weapon_R
There is no way that anyone can discredit the fact that Gretzky is deserving of a title for being a great Canadian. He revolutionized the game, put Canada on the map...

Interesting quote. Especially when mentioned in the same post as someone who actually put Canada on the map. :)

Jaysas makes a VERY good point. If hockey is how we define Canada, then by all rights Gretzky should be the greatest Canadian. While hockey is a big part of our culture, I personally feel that Canada is much more than a sport. We will never have a perfect Canadian, so we're going to have to decide on someone from this list who we think sets a good example in terms of qualities we expect from Canadians (like tolerance ergo Cherry is out), and also in terms of achievements that have improved our great country.

Based on some of the names that made the final list, I think the whole thing is a joke... but that's my opinion.

Justin

[RSX.04]

Terry Fox...hands down. He ran halfway across the country with 1 real leg. Pretty impressive. I respect the guy as much as I can and will always participate in his annual runs.

:thumbsup:

[Singel]

Gretzky lives in the states because that's where his job is. None of you can tell me that if you could make twice as much in the US as in Canada that u wouldn't move there. But, it's also probly his fault that Phoenix is a more profitable hockey market for him than if he were an owner of the Oilers or something. He's directly responsible for the situation of hockey today when he signed that huge contract...My god he's guilty of self-motivation, just like every other guy on that list (except really David Suzuki and Terry Fox, who are to a much lesser extent and more honorable reasons than just money). The greatest Canadian should be a communist, because he never does anything for his own benefit, and just lives off of his fellow country men...which brings me to the natives.

We need to just cut them off right now. Continue with cheap post secondary education, cuz that's the only way the select few actually improve themselves, and will be the only motivation available for them to work hard. A generation or two of natives willl be forced to get clean and work an honest days work and provide for themselves, and pass these values onto their children. And as horrible as it sounds, if they choose not to, they will die, and the problem will shrink.
Their other option is to become nomadic again with their teepees and hunting, there's plenty of free space in Sask. and manitoba, I'm sure they'd all love to go back to living naturally off the land, without Ajax and lysol.

In the words of Jerry Seinfeld "Let's bury the hatchet...We smokem peace pipe".

And I want reparations for the years of being discriminated against and being charged obscenely for car insurance! I'm going to be a drain on social and welfare programs until I get it!

Gretzky is the greatest canadian, both inside and outside of this country he is the most recognizable, and most influential person in our history. You show his picture to 1000 random Canadians, 99% will identify him, while nowhere near that many people would recognize John A Mac, Alexander Graham Bell, or even Jesus. Any sleezy politician could/would have founded Canada and done the CPR eventually, but only one man was capable of being Gretzky, who is the 2nd greatest/influential athlete in the World next to Ali.

If u give it to John A, u might as well give it to Klein, who is the true model of what a politician is supposed to be - a chain smoking, alcohic or beats the hell out of his wife...still have more respect for him than Brett Hull though lol

[sputnik]

Banting is my choice.

Not just his work in insulin research... but also for making it completely available to the public so that no one could have a monopoly on the technology.

As for the aboriginal "special status". The government should just buy them all out. Here's $50,000... now go use it wisely. Most of it will come back to the government in one way or another. Melinda is right. It was 150 years ago. Most of these people are 4-5 generations from the ones who were around when the treaties were signed. There should have really been a statute of limitations on them.

[googe]

Originally posted by Singel
None of you can tell me that if you could make twice as much in the US as in Canada that u wouldn't move there.

I know I certainly can.

[hyperwhite]

Tommy Douglas is the greatest canadian. without our health care we would just be america north

[sputnik]

Originally posted by hyperwhite
Tommy Douglas is the greatest canadian. without our health care we would just be america north

Canadian health care sucks ass. Long lineups, low paid staff and all of the good doctors and nurses are going to the US to work. Sounds great! :nut:

Tommy Douglas also made communism an acceptable practice in Canada, and paved the way for idiots like Jack Layton to run for office and potentially damage our already fragile economy :thumbsdow

[Singel]

Originally posted by googe


I know I certainly can.

Why not? :bullshit: Unless you're a buddhist, then that's just ridiculous. Money isn't the most important thing in life, but it is the most helpful in achieving some of the most important thingsk, and unless you have very important family issues or something, then you'd be an idiot not to go. Hell, you could fly up every weekend if u wanted

[JUMBO™]

Melinda, as a Japanese Canadian I was seriously offended by your post. Consequently you angered, alienated and lost a potential customer.

Credit to you for starting an interesting thread, but your comments toward a cultural heritage you are not directly associated with were ultimately off-topic, disrespectful and unbecoming of a person who is willing to equate these distasteful thoughts with the integrity her own fledgling business advertised below the post.

I'm surprised considering your venture relies on camera equipment, personal transportation and customer vehicles from the aforementioned country.

I would be happy discuss the merits of your argument further, but first please allow me the opportunity to fully and factually represent our family's personal experience in a face-to-face forum.

(On topic) Who's the greatest Canadian? Hard to decide, but if it were possible I'd ask each of the candidates why they thought they should deserve that title.

If they answer: "I'm not sure it should be me, there's so many great people on the list. It's just an honour to have been recognized for my small contribution to the greatest country in the world." To me, that's the ideal Canadian response and they should win (eh)!

[googe]

Originally posted by Singel


Why not? :bullshit: Unless you're a buddhist, then that's just ridiculous. Money isn't the most important thing in life, but it is the most helpful in achieving some of the most important thingsk, and unless you have very important family issues or something, then you'd be an idiot not to go. Hell, you could fly up every weekend if u wanted

There becomes a point where you can afford all your basic needs. I can afford what I need, plus some toys, and keep some savings. Im by no means rich but Im more than comfortable. So what would be the benefit? Being able to afford twice as many toys?

Besides, we are talking about Gretzky here, its either several million up here, or several more million down there. I think his case is pretty much redundant, making millions a year is more than enough to begin with.

[davidI]

Originally posted by googe


There becomes a point where you can afford all your basic needs. I can afford what I need, plus some toys, and keep some savings. Im by no means rich but Im more than comfortable. So what would be the benefit? Being able to afford twice as many toys?

Besides, we are talking about Gretzky here, its either several million up here, or several more million down there. I think his case is pretty much redundant, making millions a year is more than enough to begin with.

I dunno, I could always find somethign to do with more money! Only thing better than 1 Ferrari is 2 Ferrari's...

I don't think I'd be happy till I was Bill Gates style...and at that point I'd have to quit, buy an island, populate it with 20 y/o blondes and spend the days doing whatever the hell I wanted. I'd probably manipulate the rest of the world for fun...

[Singel]

This is just a hypothetical situation of course, but if there were a situation where u could earn more in the states, y wouldn't u go, and just work half as long and retire early if money isn't sucha n issue? It would result in much more time for things u seem to think are more important. Wouldn't hurt to have more omney saved up for retirement neither.

In Gretzky's case, he's probly lose omney in Edmonton or somewhere like that, while in Phoenix he's probly profitting, although u never really know with the way they cook their books.

[Melinda]

Originally posted by JUMBO™
Melinda, as a Japanese Canadian I was seriously offended by your post. Consequently you angered, alienated and lost a potential customer.

Credit to you for starting an interesting thread, but your comments toward a cultural heritage you are not directly associated with were ultimately off-topic, disrespectful and unbecoming of a person who is willing to equate these distasteful thoughts with the integrity her own fledgling business advertised below the post.

I appologize for upsetting you but my comments did not alienate anyone, nor were they completely off topic. I was asked a question by weapon r regarding the topic, it is not as if I pulled it out of thin air and started debating it with myself.

I've stopped debating the controvercial topics in the thread because it was taking the thread off course. Feel free to add me to MSN ([email protected]) or pm me to discuss it further. There was no implication on my part that I disrespect the japanese community whatsoever. I was commenting on the retribution aspect of WWII, not the products they produce of the people that come from or came from japan.

Again, I'm sorry for upsetting you, it was definately not my intention, bring it up with me via pm or msn and we can talk it out a bit more if you'd like.

[Singel]

Anybody watch this tonite? The Smashing Pumpkins bitch did not do Suzuki justice, they could have found some non-angry hippie to support him. Bret hart was the perfect guy to defend Don Cherry. And Trudeau took some shots, adn I really didn't mind:D

IMO:
1. Suzuki
2. Fox
3. Gretz
4. Bell
5. Cherry
6. Banting
7-10. Sleezly politicians lol

I forget what the order was that they went through of the current standings, but I bet either Fox or insulin guy wins.

And I bet if hockey weren't locked out right now, Gretz would probly be on top, since a lot of people sort of blame him for starting a trend that has resulted in the lockout. But if hockey were happening this contest probly wouldn't be, meh.

[Curious]

Robert Bateman should be on this list..he is also recognized internationally. Not as significant though.

The native thing...not all natives get 'special' status, only those who live/lived on a reserve and registered as 'native' status receive benefits. The rest are treated and taxed the same like the rest of canadiens.

The Japanese thing...The gov't already payed back those who were interned, however, the amount only amounted to around $50,000 each. Obviously this amount doesn't pay back much but it was better than nothing and a start. I agree with Melinda, the past is the past.

I once heard and now believe in this saying," I doesn't matter what color your skin is, what matters is the color of money."

All these issues, one way or the other is connected to money.

[Curious]

Ooops...typo...:rofl:

[Singel]

Originally posted by Curious
Ooops...typo...:rofl:

There is an EDIT button

[sputnik]

Banting should be #1

Diabetes is a widespread illness that doesnt discriminate... and Banting found a way for those afflicted to live normal lives. On top of that, he made his findings public so that no one could monopolize the technology and unfairly profit from it.

[method]

douglas won, as he should have.

[jaysas_63]

i am just happy that wayne and cherry got low spots, as they should have.......still kinda disapointed that he and cherry made it on the list tho

[Texas]

Dang injuns! I know personally that if I did not have to work, I probably wouldnt... Its in my nature to take the easy way out... and I fight with it on a daily basis...so anything I do have... I know I have put probably twice the effort into as someone else that these qualities might come easy to.