Canada's Constitution Essay

As a citizen of Canada, it is imperative to understand the origins of legislation that binds our nation. Unfortunately the vast majority of people can hardly comprehend both its origins and what is contained within our arrangement. “The British North America Act planted in Canada a living tree capable of growth and expansion within its limits” An analysis of the Constitution requires understanding the principles. “What are those principles? Our Constitution is primarily a written one, the product of 131 years of evolution.” The Canada Act, is accompanied by a variety of different pieces of legislation, but before discussing these varying aspects, it is compulsory to analyze the history, to achieve a better grasp of what is contained in the …show more content…
“At the time parliament was merely a temporary advising committee for the sovereign. By 1688, the role of the monarch was re-established but tempered with a Bill of Rights.” Thus, begins the creation of Canada’s constitution. A constitution may be defined as a set of rules that authoritatively establishes both the structure and the fundamental principles of the state. There is key legislation known to many, but not understood to one’s full capacity. Beginning with the Constitution Act of 1867 which underlies the basic structure of Canada’s political institutions. As time passes, legislation must also grow to accompany current needs. The progression from the Constitution Act was the Statute of Westminster. This statute was known for “granting federal and provincial legislatures the power to repeal and amend imperial statues, with one notable exception. Any changes to the Constitution Act, 1867 could only be made by Westminster” The final three essential works of legislation is known as the Canadian bill of rights, 1960; the Canada Act, 1982; and the Charter of Rights and