Canada is one of the most prominent and influential countries in the world. It sits right on our doorstep, yet a surprising number of Americans have little knowledge of it and have never visited. There are many similarities between the two countries and they share a long history of friendly relations and cooperation. But there are also substantial differences and continuing frictions.

In this five-week course we will describe Canada and its many peoples, their cultures and way of life, particularly noting history and the resultant dual English-French society. We will review the administrative and government structure and politics, including the last national election and policies of the Trudeau administration, plus the economy, business, and finance. We will discuss the following topics, contrasting them with the U.S. when pertinent: Canada’s universal health care system; education; family services and safety nets; income inequality; work and unemployment assistance; public safety; and retirement and old age. Also, trade; immigration and asylum policies; energy and global warming; and international relations and global cooperation

This will be an active course, including lectures, videos, readings on current events, and discussion. Some participants are likely to be knowledgeable and report on pertinent topics, and we might divide the class into groups to prepare special reports.