Why are there no or few Canadian Heroes?

Reason 3


Canada is not a military-heavy nation-


        Look around the globe and you will find many military heroes, conquerors and the like.  Canada has few of these violent heroes for the simple reason that Canada is not a military powerhouse. It's not what we do here would be the easiest way to summarize.  For example, when examining a list of the Worlds Famous Conquerors   (http://www.bukisa.com/articles/355243_worlds-famous-conquerors), not surprisingly, there are no Canadians present among them.
Charlotte Gray described this phenomenon well saying "we put forgotten prime ministers, like Robert Borden, on our bank notes, rather than kings and conquerors. The political and military heroes of other countries are celebrated for their fierce individualism and driving determination. But these are not Canadian qualities: Canada is not a militaristic nation." Indeed this is true. This is because Canada has never been in a war of its own (basically). We don't get invaded (last time was in 1812). However Canadians are usually involved, lending a helping hand, or looking on from the background. Example: The Cold War (1950-1991) was between USA and the USSR. Canada while not being in the war (mostly a war of words, no shots fired), was still very much involved through events like the Avro Arrow and protection plans like NORAD. My point here is that it's never usually CANADA'S war.....but we're a part of it...kinda of like a supporting actor or actress, maybe even an extra???

Part of the reason there are no great Canadian war heroes is because they are successful as a collective group. Every Canadian soldier chipping in to do their part. As a result of these acts it is Canada that is recognised collectively, not singling out an individual. Something that is quite uniquely Canadian :)
A great example of this would be the WW1 battle at Vimy Ridge (1917) in Northern France. The soldiers who fought/risked/gave their lives are with out a doubt heroes. However no single name comes to mind. This bloody battle instilled a sense of nationalism and pride, as well as the beginning of a Canadian Identity. This historic victory was a total team effort. There was no legendary soldier who stormed the ridge and took it single handednly. Yes there were leaders and generals. Yes there were medals awarded to soldiers there. But the point is that is was done by many Canadians. Not solely a single hero, rather a collection of brave, true Canadian heroes. This battle is perhaps the most famous Canadian battle and a great source of pride and our identity.