The intent of Unit 3 is to explore changes in Newfoundland and Labrador since from the late 1800s to 1972.
Unit 3 examines how surplus employment from the fishery led to the establishment of land-based industries. This marked a major shift in the province’s culture. Students also consider the limitation of the government’s ability to meet the economic demands of various issues of the time period. The unit ends chronologically with the end of the period of responsible government.
Also, Unit 3 covers the time period from 1934 to 1972. Students should understand that, due to a variety of forces, Newfoundland and Labrador was ushered into the modern era. While the influence of Joseph Smallwood will feature prominently in this discussion, it should not be assumed that his leadership was the sole reason for this change. In fact, it will be useful for students to consider if some of the changes experienced at this time were inevitable.