Canada Adrift.

The article focuses on the decline of national unity in Canada, particularly the evolving relationship between Quebec and the rest of the country since the 1960s. It outlines Quebec's shift from active separatism and constitutional negotiations toward a form of de facto separation marked by strong language laws, cultural nationalism, and political volatility, while Quebec's demographic and economic weight within Canada diminishes. The piece highlights tensions arising from Quebec's pursuit of a distinct national identity, including legislative measures like Bill 21 and the Charter of the French Language, and critiques the federal government's longstanding policy of appeasement toward Quebec's demands. It also discusses the challenges posed by Quebec's nationalist aspirations to Canada's political cohesion, bilingualism, and shared history, emphasizing the need for English Canada to reclaim its own national identity to maintain unity.