The Second World War was a total war involving most elements of society. Canadians contributed in many ways, fighting overseas, defending the country at home, and producing the weapons of war and food for Allied nations. With massive financial support and incredible exertions demanded of most Canadians, few were left untouched by the war.
During the Second World War, Canadians defended the east and the west coasts and fought in a series of long and difficult campaigns — on land, at sea and in the air — to defeat the German, Italian and Japanese forces.
More than 1.1 million Canadian men and women served in the armed forces. The home front was largely directed to winning the war. The cost of victory was high with almost 42,000 Canadians killed before Germany was defeated in May 1945 and Japan in August of the same year.
Original article found here:
https://www.warmuseum.ca/learn/canada-and-the-second-world-war/
The Peterborough Connection:
Peterborough people served in the war, both in the military and in civilian life. It was estimated that for every person in the military there were 17 who were producing equipment, raising money for the war effort, postponing expenditures and generally making certain that the soldiers had what they needed. People from Peterborough and the surrounding area were involved in all aspects of the war effort.
Original article can be found here:
https://www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com/life/2014/07/19/wartime-in-peterborough-looking-back-at-the-role-peterborough-and-its-people-played-during-the-second-world-war.html?rf
