Study/Memorable Quotes

Memorable Quotes

Famous quotes from Canadian leaders, heroes, and the Discover Canada guide.

⏱ 4 min read

Throughout Canada's history, leaders and citizens have expressed the values that make Canada unique. Here are some memorable quotes from Discover Canada.

On Freedom and Identity

"Canada is a free society and freedom is its nationality."

— Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Prime Minister 1968–1979, 1980–1984

"A country is not something you build as the pharaohs built the pyramids, and then leave standing there to defy eternity. A country is something that is built every day out of certain shared values."

— Pierre Elliott Trudeau

On Greatness and Goodness

"We will not be a great country unless we are also a good country."

— Lester B. Pearson, Prime Minister 1963–1968, Nobel Peace Prize winner

On Sacrifice and Service

"In Flanders fields the poppies blow, Between the crosses, row on row…"

— Lt. Col. John McCrae, written during the Battle of Ypres, 1915
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In Flanders Fields
This famous poem by Canadian doctor John McCrae inspired the tradition of wearing a poppy on Remembrance Day, November 11.

On Rights and Democracy

"In Canada, it is the duty of every citizen to ensure that governments respect the rights of all Canadians."

— Discover citizenship Guide

"The land is strong."

— Campaign slogan associated with Canadian values of strength and resilience

On Diversity

"In Canada we celebrate the gift of one another's presence."

— Discover Canada — describing Canadian multiculturalism

🍁 Key Points to Remember

  • •Canada's leaders have expressed a vision of a free, diverse, and compassionate society.
  • •Many quotes reflect core Canadian values: peace, tolerance, and democracy.
  • •Remembering key quotes can help with the citizenship test.