The Great Canadian Flag Debate
The Story
For nearly a century Canada had no distinctive national flag. Each time Canadians suggested a new symbol to replace the Canadian Red Ensign, modelled after a British naval flag, there was controversy. Maple leaves, beavers, crosses, crowns -- propositions that went nowhere. In 1964 Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson said he'd introduce a new national flag. But Opposition leader John Diefenbaker and the Royal Canadian Legion wanted to stick with the Red Ensign. Everyone had an opinion before Canada finally chose the red and white flag with the maple leaf.
Canadian flag homecoming
On its 40th anniversary, CBC uncovers one of the first Canadian flags in a surprising place.
First flag emerges from hiding
The first Canadian flag to be hoisted up Ottawa's Peace Tower emerges after 35 years, ending a tradition of secrecy.
Flag designer recalls controversy
Thirty years after Canadians first raised George Stanley's once-controversial flag design, children celebrate it in auditoriums.
Flag designer John Matheson receives Order of Canada
A CBC news report on John Matheson, the designer of the Canadian flag.
Mulroney celebrates Canadian flag
Despite earlier opposition by Progressive Conservative John Diefenbaker, Tory Prime Minister Brian Mulroney celebrates the flag's 25th birthday.
1965: Canada’s new Maple Leaf flag raised in Ottawa
For the first time in their country's 98-year history, Canadians raise an official national flag.
Canadians differ on flag, closure
CBC reporters ask Canadians what they think of closure in the House of Commons and their new maple leaf flag.
Closure ends flag debate
After sitting 210 days, an extended parliamentary session ends with a vote for closure on the flag debate.
Conservative MP sides with Pearson
House of Commons shocked as Léon Balcer speaks acts against party line.
Rival flag groups gather on Parliament Hill
One thousand people gathered on Parliament Hill today to show support for and anger over proposed national flags.
Diefenbaker makes his flag choices
Conservative leader Diefenbaker discusses the traditional Red Ensign flag.
Legionnaires boo PM Pearson over flag
At a Winnipeg Royal Canadian Legion convention of 2,000 people, Legionnaires in favour of the Red Ensign boo Pearson.
Maple Leaf flag campaign
The Native Sons of Canada launch a campaign for a distinctive national flag, resurrecting the debate among Canadians over what…