Lock, Stock, and Icebergs? Defining Canadian Sovereignty from Mackenzie King to Stephen Harper

Abstract

From the dawn of the Cold War, the point at which the issue of Arctic sovereignty first gained national prominence, to the present day, Canadian governments have consistently voiced their uncompromising dedication to the defence of Canada's northern heritage.  However, historically, Canadian policy has never matchedits rhetoric in the Arctic.  In an age where competition in the Arctic is becoming more intense, with states vying for control of vast natural resources and potential shipping lanes, the issue of Arctic sovereignty can no longer be one of secondary concern.  Canada can no longer dismiss the burdens which go hand-in-hand with sovereignty.  It must decide how important the Arctic tryly is to the nation and be ready to stand behind that decision.