Openness to the world

In 1980, Quebeckers were more open to the rest of the world than they had been in 1905. This was because of events such as World War I and World War II which had brought Quebeckers in direct contact with people from Europe and the rest of the world. During other much happier events, like Expo 67 in 1967, and the Olympic Games in 1976, Quebeckers also discovered new cultures. As well, it was a time when Quebeckers were travelling more and more outside of Canada, and this allowed them to discover other countries.

Television, a window on the world

The arrival of television in the 1950s allowed Quebeckers to see pictures of the rest of the world without leaving home. From 1955 on, most Quebec homes had a television, and ten years later almost every single home had one. Television shows that originated in the United States put Quebeckers in contact with this American culture. In addition, television allowed Quebeckers to share important moments, such as the landing on the Moon in 1969, with the rest of the world.

Expo 67

In 1967, Montreal played host to a World’s Fair. This event marked Canada’s centennial and Montreal’s 325^th anniversary. Expo 67 lasted six months and 50 million people visited the 90 pavilions constructed specifically for this event. Expo 67 marked Quebec’s openness to the world. Quebeckers and visitors from all around the world came to Montreal to see these wonders of the world. Expo 67 also helped Montreal to become known as a world-class city.

The 1976 Montreal Olympic Games

Less than ten years after Expo 67, Montreal was once again centre stage when it was awarded the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. Among other things, this event was marked by Nadia Comaneci’s perfect score in gymnastics. It attracted 7,000 athletes, thousands of visitors and television networks from around the world. During those few days, the eyes of the world were on Montreal. The Olympic Games were another occasion for Quebeckers to discover the world.