🐦 Chapter 8: Canadian Symbols
8.2.1 The Maple Leaf
1 paragraphs · 4 questions
The maple leaf is the symbol Canadians know best. French Canadians took it as their emblem in the 1700s, long before Confederation. From the 1850s it has been worn on Canadian uniforms and badges. It also has a solemn use: the maple leaf is carved into the headstones of Canadian soldiers who died in war, both in cemeteries overseas and at home. So the leaf is not only a cheerful national mark on the flag. It is also a sign of remembrance.
Key Facts
- The maple leaf is Canada's best-known symbol
- French Canadians adopted it in the 1700s
- It has appeared on uniforms and insignia since the 1850s
- It is carved on the headstones of fallen Canadian soldiers
Test yourself on this topic
4 practice questions from “The Maple Leaf”, each with the answer explained.
- What is Canada's best-known symbol?
- In which century did French-Canadians take up the maple leaf as a symbol?
- Since when have maple leaves appeared on Canadian uniforms and insignia?
- How is the maple leaf used to mark Canada's fallen soldiers?
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