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SS St. Louis DEFINITION: On 13 May 1939, 937 Jewish refugees escaped from…

- - - - Indirect consequence:
        Turning away Jewish refugees when they were in need of help became well known, which reflects on "Canada’s history of selective and often discriminatory immigration practices." The government's response to the issue demonstrated anti-Semitic thoughts that were more common back then. "The SS St. Louis is a symbol of a less tolerant time, a darker period in our history" that resulted in the death of many Jewish refugees.
        
        Indirect consequence:
        On 5 November 2000, members of the Canadian clergy, including the great-nephew of Frederick Blair, Baptist minister Doug Blair assembled to apologize to 25 St. Louis passengers who have survived after the tragic event. Besides, a memorial sculpture meant to commemorate the St. Louis refugees was exhibited at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax. Furthermore, on 7 November 2018, Canada made a formal apology and announced that Canada could not change its past, but it can ensure that such events will not happen again in Candian history.
        
        Most important consequnce:
        Apologies to the St. Louis events is the most important consequence, due to the reason that Canada ensured that such incidents would not be repeated with turning away refugees. The event was significant in shaping Canada's current record of helping people in need. For instance, Canada opened its door to the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. The event represents a severe and historical issue that is being reflected on 80 years later when the current Liberals government apologized for what the past liberals government did.
- - - - Underlying Cause:
        According to a poll taken in October 1946, 49% of Canadians found Jews undesirable and did not want them in their community. Canadians believed that allowing immigrants into the country would result in the emigration of native-born Canadians.
        
        Underlying Cause:
        Quebec‘s influence on political decisions within Canada was very strong. Quebec threatened to separate from Canada if Mr.King allowed Jewish immigrants into the country, and this heavily influenced his decision to turn away the refugees. However, if the other provinces had been in strong favour of allowing the refugees in, then Mr. King would have been forced to take it into greater consideration.
        
        Underlying Cause:
        French Canada did not want any immigration in general, however, they were even more opposed to any Jewish immigration because there was a heavy anti-Semitic belief in the Catholic church. The priests saw them as inferiors and immoral individuals. Catholics believed that Jewish people were influenced by the devil and were determined to destroy Christianity.
        
        Most important cause:
        Quebec had a powerful influence on Prime minister William Lyon Mackenzie King's decisions in deciding the fate of the refugees. King needed the support of the liberal party in Quebec, and so he wished to keep peace with them. Ultimately, if Quebec had not threatened to separate from Canada, the outcome may have been different.