The Charlottetown Conference of 1864 set the foundation for the nation of Canada as we know it today. Although it took many years for all of the provinces to commit to Confederation, it was at this pivotal conference that the idea of the unified provinces was brought forward and the road to Union was paved.
After the meetings in Charlottetown the delegates went on to meet first in Quebec and then in London, England, to solidify the terms that would bring the provinces together as a nation in 1867. In the first arrangement only a handful of provinces would enter into the Dominion. Even Prince Edward Island, where Confederation was first discussed, waited to test the waters before joining in 1873. Eventually, however, all of the provinces were convinced of the advantages of joining the strong new nation of Canada. In 1949, Newfoundland became the final piece that would complete the tapestry of Canada.
Because of the work of the Fathers of Confederation a great nation was created. Canada is now the second largest country in the world and boasts one of the best standards of living for its inhabitants as rated by the United Nations. It is at the forefront of industry and technology as well as being a world leader in politics and peace-keeping. Canada owes its founders much credit for their foresight in creating a nation that after more than 125 years is still strong and prosperous.
