Canadian

Canadian ethnicity encompasses a diverse and multicultural identity shaped by the land’s Indigenous roots, colonial history, and waves of immigration. It reflects a blend of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultures alongside European influences, particularly British and French, with contributions from countless other communities worldwide. This dynamic mix has forged a national character marked by adaptability, inclusivity, and a deep respect for nature. While “Canadian” can refer to anyone of Canadian nationality, as an ethnicity, it implies a shared cultural heritage rooted in the unique history, geography, and social values of Canada.
The Canadian ethnicity in Ladysmith, transplanted to the Pactlands, would carry over much of its identity but adapt rapidly to the new conditions. The town’s residents, shaped by their culture of resourcefulness and community-oriented values, would prioritize cooperation and ingenuity to survive and rebuild. While the modern multicultural ethos might persist in spirit, practical challenges would likely drive a stronger reliance on shared traditions and skills. The residents’ sense of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity would translate into efforts to integrate into the local geopolitical community, negotiating relationships with sentient beings or neighboring societies.

Culture

Culture and cultural heritage

Canadian culture is defined by its diversity, with Indigenous traditions coexisting alongside British, French, and global influences. The country takes pride in its bilingualism (English and French) and multicultural policies, which celebrate differences rather than enforcing assimilation. Nature plays a significant role in the national identity, with outdoor activities like hockey, hiking, and canoeing deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric. Literature, music, and film thrive, with notable contributions from figures like Margaret Atwood, Leonard Cohen, and directors like David Cronenberg and Sarah Polley. Indigenous cultures, with their rich oral histories and spiritual practices, are recognized as integral to Canada’s cultural heritage.
Ladysmith’s culture retains its respect for diversity and inclusion, even in the face of medieval societal norms that might prioritize rigid hierarchies. The town’s artistic and musical traditions would adapt, with storytelling and live performance taking on greater importance as entertainment and a means of preserving heritage. Indigenous traditions, such as smudging and powwows, might blend with medieval customs, creating a rich tapestry of cultural practices. The community’s connection to nature and outdoor life would deepen as they adapted to a world where survival depended on the land.

Shared customary codes and values

Canadians value politeness, tolerance, and fairness, which are central to the nation’s identity. Egalitarianism is deeply ingrained, with an emphasis on protecting human rights, fostering diversity, and promoting inclusivity. Respect for the environment is also a core value, reflecting Canada’s vast wilderness and the close ties many Canadians feel to nature. Collaboration and compromise are highly regarded, as is maintaining peace in interpersonal and political relationships.
Ladysmith’s shared values, such as politeness, fairness, and respect for others, remains a cornerstone of their community in Elyndralis as well. However, survival pressures might necessitate a stronger focus on adaptability and self-reliance. The town’s inherent Canadian egalitarianism could become a guiding principle in forging alliances with varying factions or resolving disputes in a world with a more medieval ethos. Ladysmith continues efforts to sustain harmony and fairness to maintain a cohesive and resilient society amid the challenges of their new environment.

Average technological level

Canada is a highly developed nation with advancements in various fields:


Communications: A leader in telecommunications, Canada has a strong infrastructure for digital and wireless communication.
Energy: While rich in natural resources, Canada is investing heavily in renewable energy like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
Transportation: Known for efficient rail systems (e.g., VIA Rail) and advancements in aerospace, such as Bombardier technologies.
Healthcare & Research: Canada excels in medical research and universal healthcare, with world-class hospitals and innovations in biotechnology.
Environmental Technologies: Focused on green initiatives, including sustainable forestry, clean water technologies, and carbon capture solutions.

Canadian ethnicity embodies a fusion of heritage, innovation, and a commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable society. However, the abrupt shift to medieval levels of technology would force Ladysmith to adapt its knowledge to available resources. While modern infrastructure like electricity, telecommunications, and fuel supply have been lost, residents would retain their advanced understanding of medicine, engineering, and sustainable practices. Skills like woodworking, blacksmithing, and agriculture would become crucial, blending medieval techniques with modern problem-solving. Ladysmith’s residents might innovate within their limitations, creating windmills, water-powered mills, or even rudimentary aqueducts. The community’s focus on green technology and environmental stewardship could also inspire creative uses of natural resources, helping them thrive in the Pactlands, should they survive long enough to.

Common Etiquette rules

Politeness: Canadians are known for their courteous and apologetic nature. Saying “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” is common.
Queuing: Canadians value fairness, and orderly queuing in public spaces is expected.
Respect for Diversity: Acknowledging and respecting cultural differences is an essential aspect of Canadian etiquette.
Privacy: Canadians generally respect personal boundaries and avoid intrusive questions about private matters.
Tipping: In restaurants and service industries, tipping (15-20%) is customary and seen as a sign of gratitude.

Although many of the common etiquette of Canadians contrasts sharply with the less structured etiquette of the Pactlands, particularly amongst commoners, many of these traditions persist and even begin to spread.

Art & Architecture

Canadian art and architecture reflect the country’s history and landscapes:

Art: Indigenous art, such as totem poles, carvings, and beadwork, forms the foundation of Canadian cultural expression. European settlers introduced styles like landscape painting, famously represented by the Group of Seven. Contemporary Canadian art embraces a mix of global influences, celebrating both traditional and modern forms.

Architecture: Canadian architecture combines Indigenous techniques (e.g., longhouses, igloos) with colonial influences, particularly British and French. Modern cities showcase a blend of Gothic Revival, neoclassical, and contemporary designs, with structures like the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa and CN Tower in Toronto serving as iconic examples.

The artistic heritage of Ladysmith adapts to its new context, blending Canadian multicultural aesthetics with the materials and techniques available in the Pactlands. Traditional Indigenous art forms, like carvings and beadwork, would persist and evolve using the natural resources of the region. Gothic and neoclassical influences in modern Canadian architecture inspires the construction of new buildings using stone, timber, and thatch. The town’s residents, used to practical and sustainable design, would prioritize function and resilience, leading to unique structures enriched with Canadian motifs.

Foods & Cuisine

Canadian cuisine reflects its multicultural population and natural resources:
Indigenous Foods: Bannock, wild game, and maple syrup have deep roots in Canada’s history.

Regional Specialties:

Québecois Cuisine: Poutine, tourtière (meat pie), and sugar shack treats like maple taffy.

Maritime Dishes: Lobster, scallops, and donair from the Atlantic provinces.

Prairie Staples: Bison, pierogis, and hearty stews.

West Coast Cuisine: Salmon, sushi, and farm-to-table dishes.

Cultural Fusion: Immigrant communities have introduced dishes like butter chicken, pho, and dim sum, which have become staples in Canadian cities.

Ladysmith’s culinary traditions undergo a significant transformation in the absence of modern conveniences, relying on local ingredients and methods.

Common Customs, traditions and rituals

National Holidays: Canada Day (July 1) and Thanksgiving (second Monday in October) are widely celebrated.

Indigenous Ceremonies: Powwows, smudging ceremonies, and seasonal celebrations are part of the cultural tapestry.

Winter Festivals: Events like the Winter Carnival in Québec and Winterlude in Ottawa reflect the importance of seasonal celebrations.

Remembrance Day: Observed on November 11, this day honors Canadian veterans with solemn ceremonies.

Cultural Festivals: From Diwali and Lunar New Year to Caribbean Carnival, Canada’s multiculturalism is reflected in its festivals.

Many of these holidays would have to be reimagined in a new context, adapted to a new calendar, and possibly merge with cultural celebrations unique to the Pactlands.

Related Organizations

• Dreamland Conspiracy