The military history of what is now the province of Ontario is complex. It is a history of both war and peace, of service and sacrifice, and of the different ways in which this has touched the lives of those living in Ontario over time. It reveals the ways in which individual lives have been lived, saved and lost. It further provides an avenue to understand Ontario’s social relations, politics, economies and cultures. To explore these intersections, this resource contains a series of unique perspectives and voices describing Ontario’s involvement in wars and conflicts. In addition, it focuses on the historical development of the military in Ontario.
Although this resource does not aim to be exhaustive, it does strive to expand the narrative and share additional perspectives on Ontario’s military heritage.
This work draws on secondary-source literature as well as the Ontario Heritage Trust’s own collections, properties, plaques and publications. In addition, each section provides links to connect visitors to external web resources for further engagement.
As this resource shows, Ontario’s people and Indigenous allies were mobilized in times of crisis to contribute to the military, either as civilians or as military personnel. These experiences were shaped by gender as well as racial and ethnic discrimination. And yet, those who faced social barriers to serve repeatedly demonstrated their bravery and willingness to sacrifice for the broader community. Understanding these experiences is an important part of Ontario’s military heritage, which serves to remind us of our past, and furthermore, continues to inform our public policies.
Another important theme is to illustrate how Ontario’s military history is connected to a diverse range of places, including Indigenous land, towns and cities, battlefields, military bases, industrial and research facilities, and internment camps. These places highlight how wartime mobilization and the military led to divergent experiences, ranging from stories of heroism and sacrifice to repression and social injustice.
1. War of 1812
Sir Isaac Brock. This painting is copied from a portrait that was in the possession of John Savery Carey in 1897.
Photo: Library and Archives Canada, Acc. No. 1991-30-1
Explore the story of how Upper Canada became an outlet for American aggression and expansionism.
1. War of 1812
2. Rebellions and incursions
Map of Upper Canada, 1836, 912-713-T12
Photo: Toronto Reference Library
Learn how the military was crucial for maintaining order in Upper Canada up to and including Confederation.
2. Rebellions and incursions
3. The Great War
![Norman James holds the first shell manufactured in Toronto. (Photo: City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1244, Item 852 Date: [1914?])](https://www.heritagetrust.on.ca/uploads/Exhibits/WW1-Munitions-factory-1500px.jpg)
Norman James holds the first shell manufactured in Toronto
Photo: City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 1244, Item 852 Date: [1914?]
Discover how the Great War changed Ontario and influenced how the province developed.
3. The Great War
4. Second World War
Wings Parade, 1944. Young Canadians who completed their fly training under the Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
Photo: Toronto Star Photograph Archive, Toronto Public Library, 12/28/1940
Look at how Ontario’s participation in the Second World War impacted Canadian military expansion and modernization.
4. Second World War
5. Cold War defence and military restructuring
Blast tunnel leading into the Diefenbunker
Photo: Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum
Learn about the role played by Ontario during the post-war period and how the Canadian Forces continue to grow and evolve.
5. Cold War defence and military restructuring
The Ontario Heritage Trust gratefully acknowledges the research of Ryan Targa in preparing this resource.
