Is Canada really “a peaceable kingdom” with “an unmilitary people”? Desmond Morton says no. This is a country that has been shaped, divided, and transformed by war – there is no greater influence in Canadian history, recent or remote. Through the Cold War, the Gulf War, and after, Canadians had to make difficult decisions about defence and foreign policy, and these events have shaped the country, developing our industries, changing the role of women, realigning our political factions, and changing Canada’s status in the world.