Making Canada Our 51st State Could Make It Easier to Buy American

So, at this year's annual World Economic Forum meeting in Switzerland, the United States trumped up the "Buy American" dogma. Canadian Finance Minister, Jim Flaherty, responded by pronouncing that American "protectionism" would be "met by resistance" by countries around the globe- but that Canada would not effect trade restrictions of its own.

After all, why should Canada stand in the way? They are the number one trading partner of this United States.

Although other countries fear the latest US evolution in its trade policy, Canada does not. And, it's all good- we need them. They need us. They ARE us. We are one and the same. Keep reading.

And, therefore, I say- let's get this charade out of the way already- and officially make Canada our 51st State.

Seems outrageous doesn't it?

I know. I know.
Hate me today. But, love me tomorrow, eh?

But, in an overwhelming variety of ways- it makes a lot more sense than you might think.

Canada, that Great-White land mass due north of the United States contains, quite possibly, the richest body of natural resources in the world- iron ore, nickel, zinc, copper, gold, lead, molybdenum, potash, diamonds, silver, fish, timber, wildlife, coal, petroleum, natural gas and hydro-electric power.

Canadian-based companies such as Canadian Natural Resources Limited (CNQ), Barrick Gold Corporation (ABX) and Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan, Inc (POT) are just a few of Canada's major players in the global resource boom of recent years.

Yet, as of 2008, there were only 33 million Canucks living in a surface area of 3.85 million square miles- or roughly 5.4 people per square mile of arable land- which is ranked 166th out of 168 of the world's arable countries. All those resources- and so few people. Sounds suspicious. Where's all that money going? All Canadians must be rich. No? Or maybe just a handful have all the dough- and the rest go to hockey games with flasks of wine and beer, wondering the same thing.

Anyways, let's face it- the only way you can tell Canadians apart from Americans is if you listen to the accent- and, you know we Americans love to make fun of it. But, it's not unlike Sarah Palin having bred children, don't ya know, in Fargo, North Dakota.

So, hey- let's not throw stones.

And, of course, Canadians grow up wanting to be Americans. They watch exactly the same television shows as us on US-affiliated Canadian networks. They supply us with an endless star-studded list of talent- from Jim Carey, Mike Meyers and Howie Mandel on the comedic side (all of whom, when they had the chance, took the first American-bound bus out of Canada they could find), to K.D. Lang, Celine Dion and Sarah McLachlan on the singing side.

And- as, everyone knows- Captain Kirk is Canadian.

On an economic basis- Canada's gigantic resources would offer the USA an incredible, indescribable boost. The United States, in fact, is already the major importer of Canadian resources. Suffice to say, the U.S has become entirely dependent on Canadian oil. We import nearly $5 billion worth of steel and iron from the North. The combined resources of the two countries would offer all types of industries a seemingly endless backstop of supply. Whether for internal use, or for export.

Indeed, there is enough oil in all that Canadian shale to last us oil-addicted Americans several lifetimes- and then some. Plus- we wouldn't have to go digging in the near-term, certainly, for our own vast 3 trillion barrel shale deposits buried under Colorado, Utah and Wyoming- so U.S. environmentalists might smile a bit the next time Senator Orrin Hatch gurgles about trofting the Rockies (although, of course, oil shale extraction is definitely not green).

I mean- at least in Canada- mostly all their oil shale can be found in the tar sand boonies of those pitless-wonders, Saskatchewan and Alberta.

Of course, from a security stand-point- merging Canada into the United States effectively eliminates one giant coast-to-coast border: a border which scoundrels have used for years to enter into our country; all they've had to do is fly into Canada and then sneak over the vast porous border into the U.S. If Canada became part of the United States- security could be greatly enhanced, especially by only allowing international flights into Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.

You know- I'm not alone in wanting to grab a big piece of Canada as an investment in our future. China, over the last several years, has been steadily, stealthily and methodically buying up Canada right behind our backs.

And, China's Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. reportedly recently made a play to buy Canadian telcom equipment giant Nortel Networks (NT) - all of it. The entire company - which is now in chapter 11 bankruptcy. This, even though in March 2008, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) had previously nixed Huawei's desire to buy a 16.5% stake in Massachusetts-based, 3Com Corp. (COMS) citing national security concerns. It makes no sense, either from an economic, or a security point-of-view, to let China keep doing what they're doing unabated. In fact, it is outrageous that this has been going on up in Canada- in our own backyard. What are you Canadians thinking???

In 2002, Leger Marketing of Montreal polled Americans about annexing Canada to the United States, and roughly 40% said they would be in favor it. 49% disagreed. In September 2001, Leger had done a similar poll of Canadians - and, in regard to Canada being annexed by the USA, only 20% of Canadians agreed. In fact, 76.5% rejected the idea! And there have been similar polls conducted over the years. Seems like the same results. A strong minority of Americans favor it. And the strong majority of Canadians firmly reject the idea.

Hmm. Sounds to me like Canadians need some more prodding. Are you Ontario Loyalists still bitter about what happened in 1776? Are you French Canadians still hanging your chapeaux on trying to separate altogether from Canada and becoming your own country- OUI or NON? "Je me souviens?" -don't make me laugh...

Time to get over it. We need each other. For economic and security reasons, to name just two. Is there really even a Canadian "identity," in the first place, in which to vest any nationalistic pride whatsoever?

No. That went out the window when Pierre Trudeau went to Harvard.

So I say- let's make you Canadians an offer.

"We'll make you our 51st State." And you say, "Sure- what a great idea. We're one and the same, anyways. Thought you'd never ask!"

(The author holds no positions in any of the stocks mentioned in this article)

Comments

[COMMODITY/C...:]

America is our biggest customer and we feel your cycles deeply but how about both our Land's flounder along until hopefully we can say 'This to will pass'

Feb 01 03:33 PM

[Shawnette:]

I have a better idea...give Alaska to Canada.

Feb 01 04:12 PM

[Ilias Desiree:]

I have a better idea... We (Canadians) just need to wait for the USA collapse, and then we will take all the northern states (Alaska included, of course). We don’t want it all. Mexico can take Texas…

Feb 01 04:31 PM

[Ian R. Camp...:]

I can only assume 'GT McDuffy' wrote this article tongue in cheek. I am a Canadian who spends three months each year in the U.S. I cherish the friendships I have with many Americans. I find the manner in which McDuffy has written his article condescending, shallow and highly irritating.

Feb 01 06:01 PM

[Sargasso:]

What an idea. You get a great country with abundant resources, free medical care and endless fresh air and water and they get to help you shoulder trillions of debt.

I can understand why the polling is so different in Canada.

Feb 01 10:51 PM

[Rob Horwood:]

Some day you'll all wish you were Canadian. Imagine living in a country who was always on the winning side and showed up on time...unlike WW2 where you were three years late. Imagine a country where we take care of all the children and not just the rich ones. Imagine living in a country that was even attacked by you... yes you...in 1812. We pushed you back...and burned down your Whitehouse (your new one looks nice). Imagine a country with most of the world's fresh water and ample natural resources where we play a national sport that we invented (Basketball was incented by a Canadian, Baseball was invented in Europe, our national football championship has been played for 96 years). Imagine a country where I can read your crap, laugh aloud and enjoy a real beer. Keep imagining.

Feb 01 10:54 PM

[rber:]

You gotta love this guy. He is right about one thing though. We need each other. Speaking for at least 76.5% (I think its actually more like 99%) of us though, we do need each other, however, that would be at a comfortable distance. I'm surprised he even knows where Canada is. Here I thought Americans didn't know a thing about Canada or anything else outside their borders. Shame on me.
Save your 51st state for some other smuck, like Iraq. We're quite happy with the status quo.

Feb 02 12:21 AM

[Proud Canad...:]

This article is the exact reason why Canadians, although we tolerate Americans (not America) and have many friends there, are whole heartedly proud to be Canadian. This article reeks of arrogance and that is why we shake our heads at Americans so often......"blah, blah, blah, God bless America the best country in the world!" Whose opinion? And based on what, endless invasions?

Although there are many nice places in America most Canadians could never live there due to the social attitude of millions of ignorant consumers (my pet word for Americans). By the way have you ever actually heard a southern American, trailer park trash, inbred flag waver, klu-kluz-klan member, NRA lover remotely say anything resembling intelligent. Infact I think it is just the opposite, most Americans, at least those who have stepped beyond the borders (yah both of you) would prefer to be Canadian. As proof how many Americans have we met traveling that wear a Maple Leaf while traveling. Better than the American flag/target.

All I can say is go ahead and try it. Ever heard of Israel and Palenstine? You think a couple of Arabs taking down the towers was something.......I assure you Canada would fight to the end.

Unbelievable just how arrogant you are! And your Editors are even worse.

Feb 02 12:58 AM

[Strannick:]

You Yankees do have good TV its true. Canadian content regulations are something I wish had gone the way of the coon skin toque with free trade.
Also, whingers like my canadian confrere in the email above need to learn a little ''realpolitic''. They complain endlessly about American power, and righteously sniffle about the imperialistic designs of ''George W Bush". They always say the ''W''. They need to understand what the world would be like if the superpower de jour was China or Russia.
Insipid countries like the European Community, or Canada dont realize when push comes to shove we will be lying on our backs crying ''uncle''. Russian Alexander Solycheinzin in his Harvard address wrote about the 80s unilateral disarmament program popular in Europe. He said how the Russians couldnt believe the Europeans could be so naive and silly.
Anyway, you Yanks should be left to wallow in your bankruptcy, and then come crawlling to us for all your energy needs, at fair market value. Unfortunately, we have never faired well under the provisions of NAFTA, and you try and rip us off relentlessly, on softwood especially.
You should heed Ron Paul, and stop being a bunch of big babies suckling at Obama's teet of government wetnurse. That guy is scarier than Bush. Let your military come home, try building something yourselves for a change, instead of buying it from China, and leave us to our Beavers and Maple Syrup.

Feb 02 02:02 AM

[john s. gordon:]

canada was invaded by the continental congress in 1775 but it didn't work.
the local residents being francophones for the most part (and having been abandoned by their king who felt that royal fun & games at versailles were more important) preferred to sit in a corner and sulk.

andy jackson insisted on invading (intending to annex) canada in 1812 although the new england merchants whose sailors were being impressed by the royal navy preferred trade to war. this venture turned out to be a fiasco, altho not as bad as vietnam.

fear of the usa by canadians persisted for another 30 yrs or so & resulted in construction of various forts, strategic canals, etc. but things calmed down after a while.

why would canadians want to become state # 51? they have universal health coverage for all citizens & we don't.
> jack

Feb 02 08:40 AM

[abcde_98:]

The author is likely seeking controversy and to create publicity, but is presenting an idea presented on many occassions in the past the way to proceed?

Is the author schooled in the ways of Ponzi schemes? and/or country-unions, like the European Union? The developed, mature, earlier members of the EU have sought to bring in the faster growth, developing countries/markets (the 'new investors'). The mature nations pocket easy gains from these 'new investors' who will take years to recover.


What is the value proposition of the USA to Canada?

USA offers ______ and in exchange receives _____. If the author would be so king to itemize in a list and provide an estimate of the value of each item, perhaps the picture would be more clear.


Value please on technology that blows up everyone?

Value added please on weapons of financial destruction?

Value added please by USA's stimulus plan not even considering to fund the massive (approx same magnitude as entire TARP?) deficit of health care and pension systems ?
Sounds good to say you have these social benefits. On the other hand, China does not offer much of a pension system, but don't cha ya think they could fund it with their surplus?

By the way, for a rather smaller original population, Canada has grown, and made some important contributions www.canada4life.ca/inv...

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Sent from my Blackberry (oh, even Obama can't do without it)

Feb 02 08:45 AM

[User 349011:]

All of Canada would be one state? Canada is larger than the US so it would deserve all least 50 states!!!! But we don't want to be Americans, first for all the bad reputation you have all over the world, and second because you think your the best thing it the world (and it's far from the truth) and we don't like that type of superior attitude... We enjoy our country, our land, our ressources and our health care. We love the border between Canada and the US and let's keep it that way. By the way, 25% of Canadians are French-speaking and most of them don't watch American shows. They watch their own shows (small budgets but very creative!!) or shows/films from France... Bye Bye and keep your debts and junkfood. And lousy attitude!

Feb 02 09:09 AM

[User 281991:]

The writer is FULL OF SHIT, his facts are incorrect and there is no point debating each one, and if I did I m not sure whether he would be able to read.


Dont let our nice demener be mistaken for lack action should you approach we will fight.

Oh and by the way, Alaska should separate and join our confederation.

Feb 02 09:34 AM

[anchoredina...:]

Actually, we were thinking that after the other economic shoe drops America could be readily annexed to become Canada's 11th province. Or maybe we'd assign you territory status until we could figure out what to do with you.

One day, if Canada plays its cards right, it will come true. But the driver is not oil, gas and minerals. Its the most precious commodity of all: water. If we tell you that you can't have it, you'll take it. But if we tell you its for sale and its really expensive, you'll understand and you'll pay. And pay and pay and pay. And eventually, like it or not, we'll own you.

Feb 02 10:19 AM

[john s. gordon:]

well lake superior has a lot of water in it & the ownership is joint however it's contaminated with taconite tailings (asbestos) from silver bay MN.
> jack

Feb 02 10:42 AM

[paintismotion:]

OK - Lets Annex .... the USA to Canada! Lets do away with the whole notion of the United States and just call the new country Canada. The capital of the continent can be moves to Winterpeg - which is in the middle anyway. that way the rest of the world assumes Americans are now nice and polite and have some prior knowledge of things in their country - and of course as Canadians no one will invade anyone internationally anymore. As Canadians we get rid of useless symbols like the CBC and can rename CBS the Canadian Broadcast System. The CRTC is guess goes to. Oh Well :)

Feb 02 10:51 AM

[Paul Ward:]

You're right! There really isn't much difference between Canadians and Americans and there is no reason why Canada and the US shouldn't merge. All it requires is for the US to admit their revolution has been a failure and come back under the monarchy. I'm sure we'll be glad to have you back. There is that issue of property seized during your revolution that will have to be settled. After all, you're insisting on the same thing with Cuba, and I'm sure you wouldn't want to be hypocrites about that sort of thing. Speaking of Cuba, you'll have to accept trade and travel with them when you join us. And please stop being so racist; you do realize we ended slavery a couple generations before you did, and we didn't need a civil war to do it. Just a little peace, order and good government. You might like to join us and try it for a while. One final thing: don't get uppity and try to invade us or annex us. The last time you tried that we burned your White House down. I know we'd just hate to have to do that again!

Feb 02 10:57 AM

[325757:]

Wow, I think I am more surprised by the responses to the article than to the article itself. Come on fellow Canadians....where is that passive easy going demeanor? The author is purposefully trying to upset Canadian readers with tongue in cheek suggestions that we want to "be" Americans, since we "have no identity" as well as politely stealing our assets...since we are "the same". Don't take the bait. It must be a joke. We as Canadians will no doubt feel some of the fallout from the U.S. credit bubble (created from greed and corruption), however we will get by. This financial collapse that originated in the U.S. and has now spread to the rest of the world will affect us Canadians much less due to a couple of our other identities of being conservative and careful. Our lack of identity helps us not irritate other foreign nations, since we don't display an air of arrogance that many (not all) Americans display. O.K., those Americans would call it patriotism and national pride. I think I will stop here, since being Canadian, I don't want to offend any of our cousins to the South. And it's after 11am. Time for a beer. I think I'll have a Budweiser!!!

Feb 02 11:32 AM

[helsi:]

Having read the comments from both sides, it appears both sides a little radical. I am born and raised in the US....I am very proud to be American, but we are not the end all and be all of everything.There are lots of things I would change especially integrity and honesty in our politicians, at all levels. I love visiting Canada...it is beautiful. Relatives in Canada love visiting the US...they think it beautiful. Let us appreciate each other and leave things be. I really don't believe Canada would be better off joining us, at least until we can solve more of our own problems.

Feb 02 11:38 AM

[sandspider:]

One way or the other ... the new Amerio currency idea of Mexico, America and Canada one big happy family. The new trade craft going on and the super highway right through America. You folks do what you want as Alaska is going to part company with you anyway. If all you Amerio's are good we might trade with you. Otherwise we will go elsewhere. Rumor has it British Columbia and Alberta might go with us...and then who will be wishing. Save your own butts and buy gold or sink...alone

Feb 02 12:08 PM

[Jimbo:]

The more I read of the article, the more I concluded it was tongue-in-cheek since it was so outrageous. I am a native born citizen of the U.S. I admit we Yankees have our many faults and warts. I sometimes fantasize a giant power saw coming down and cutting the U.S. off from the world and drifting into outer space. I suppose the rest of mankind would live in peace ,harmony, and brotherhood, right??? I'm told the Nicaraguan National Anthem proclaims the U. S. is the "enemy of all mankind". For the benefit of my fellow Gringos, consider this: Siberia is a vast land with great mineral resources, timber, oil, gas, and water.To the South is a teeming nation of much more than a billion people, eager to consume all those resources. The Russians, in their private moments must say to themselves: "Oh my God!". By the same token, consider the relationship of Canada and the U.S: a very large nation to the north filled with minerals, timber, water, oil and gas. A population of about 30 million versus a population of 330 million( the illegals count too). I am sure the Canadians must have some of the same feelings for us as The Russians have for the Chinese. In spite of the dreamers at the U.N., I believe the sovereign state still has a future but there are limits on governability. Imagine dealing with all those Francophones? The Anglo Canadians have their hands full. Jack Gordon's approval of the health care system in Canada suggests to me he has not had conversations with Canadians that I have. I have met Canadian patients and physicians who came south. I really don't believe anyone has devised a health care system that works well.

Feb 02 12:42 PM

[john s. gordon:]

jimbo - i am aware that a few canadians of wealth come to usa for specialized or speedy medical treatments. others of no particular wealth are happy to get the plain vanilla care.

canadian doctors who come south (i don't believe i know any) presumably are after the $.

doctors from all over the world come to usa, after the $. should they be @ home providing care to their needy fellows?

i have many friends in canada. one of my friends in toronto has a mysterious neurological problem requiring regular treatments. he tells me his treatments cost the canadian taxpayer 1,000,000 annually. he says if he were a u.s. citizen he would be dead by now. in u.s.a health care is rationed by ability to pay cash. it seems to me the canadian system is more humane.
> jack

Feb 02 01:40 PM

[john s. gordon:]

mr, ward - white house got burned down by the british army (not the canadian army) because the u.s forces had gone up to york & burned the place down. if the us. army had been up to snuff they would have repulsed the brits @ the battle of bladensburg.
> jack

Feb 02 01:43 PM

[OldLimey:]

How about splitting the US between Canada and Mexico, but leaving DC to 'govern' itself? Better yet, maybe DC could become the 'bad bank'?

Feb 02 03:09 PM

[User 349311:]

The author is arrogant and needs to check his spelling when publishing an article. Perfect example of the American education system.

The author's arrogance and ignorance highlights another main difference between Canadian's and Americans.

Dream on. Canada is not for sale.

Feb 02 03:18 PM

[yellowhoard:]

Canada has never apologised for Bryan Adams. I say inslave them and make them brew our beer. Ya eh.

Feb 02 03:37 PM

[specks:]

I apologize for all this canadian blather from my friends and citizens.
They are so self-righteous but do not likely know that our national government pension plan managers bought 30,000,000 shares of Nortel, it's now in bankruptcy, and our government has to, and is, bailing them out.
sorry... but the reality is we've also got some work to do.
I was pleased for the video from Barstow with all the snow. Great treat for the kids who are used to 115 degree temperatures.
Cheers!!

Feb 02 06:14 PM

[FredTheSpectre:]

Very funny article and responses. Thanks for all the light entertainment. Much needed in these difficult times. Keep up the good work, GT McDuffy.

Feb 02 09:57 PM

[Sailingwind...:]

All of you are dead wrong, the US is set to become one of Chinas providences, since we owe them money, and everything in the US is from China anyway, like the lead filled toys my children play with, the melamine I feed my pets, and the tainted drugs I give to my elderly grandparents, and lets not forget they have most of our jobs too.

Feb 02 11:09 PM

[longoil:]

It is understandable why the author would want the US to take over Canada. Looks all its strengths.

1) Socialized medicine takes care of everyone in Canada. In the USA, the rich can afford good doctors, government medicare takes care of the poor and the uninsured middle class (40 million people) is screwed.

2) The banking system in Canada has never failed. If you can't afford to make payments on a home, you never get a mortgage from a bank.

3) Lawyers are NOT given free reign and nuisance lawsuits are rare there.

4) Canada is a resource bonanza; Oil, gas, uranium, gold, silver, nickel, timber, water, electricity, etc.

Feb 03 10:15 AM

[newport:]

are you crazy, can you really see us take on that mess. Life is nice in Canada who would want to spoil it


On Feb 02 10:19 AM anchoredinanchorage wrote:

> Actually, we were thinking that after the other economic shoe drops
> America could be readily annexed to become Canada's 11th province.
> Or maybe we'd assign you territory status until we could figure out
> what to do with you.
>
> One day, if Canada plays its cards right, it will come true. But
> the driver is not oil, gas and minerals. Its the most precious commodity
> of all: water. If we tell you that you can't have it, you'll take
> it. But if we tell you its for sale and its really expensive, you'll
> understand and you'll pay. And pay and pay and pay. And eventually,
> like it or not, we'll own you.
>

Feb 03 11:55 AM

[newport:]

what a nightmare..us taking over the US or the US taking us over....with Bush I was affraid he could have tried the latter.
Maybe Obama will realize he has much to do at home and concentrate on that. For the benefit of the whole world we need a USA back on track. Hopefully, having somebody intelligent at the helm is a starting point

Feb 03 12:06 PM

[moosebump:]

Maybe it should be the other way round? Canada should make a bid for the US. The timing is right. The US stock has never been cheaper. Of course we would be assuming trillions of dollars in consumer, government and financial industry debt.
It would be a win for Americans...
-they would get a nice mature universal health care system instead of waiting to see what the Dems come up with
-crime rates would drop because hand guns would be banned
-since Americans would still need their fix of violence, we could teach them how to really love hockey
-we could teach them fiscal restraint - good cautious Canadians would never buy a 100% debt financed house with a negative am mortgage even if we believed "real estate never falls" in price
-no more Wall Street greed problem - we would move it to Bay Street
-more colourful money
-we could divert billions of dollars from launching wars into peacekeeping (cleaning up the mess of previous wars)
-Americans could now legitimately wear the Maple Leaf when travelling overseas

Feb 03 12:22 PM

[Gilbert A...:]

From Québec,

I prefer our national debt than US national debt.

Oreo cookies don't taste the same in US.

At least if that ever happens, we will be able to buy freely guns and ammos.....

Can they speak french in the congress ????? :))))))))))

Feb 04 12:22 AM

[gtmcduffy@g...:]

BTW- under the US Articles Of Consideration, Article 11 requires nine states to approve the admission of a new state into the confederacy; and pre-approves Canada, if it applies for membership.:

Under the US Constitution:

"Canada may join the United States

Article XI. Canada acceding to this confederation, and adjoining in the measures of the United States, shall be admitted into, and entitled to all the advantages of this Union; but no other colony shall be admitted into the same, unless such admission be agreed to by nine States."

www.usconstitution.net...

S0 -when you Canadians are ready- we'll get 9 states to confirm. Not a problem...


On Feb 04 12:22 AM Gilbert A... wrote:

> From Québec,
>
> I prefer our national debt than US national debt.
>
> Oreo cookies don't taste the same in US.
>
> At least if that ever happens, we will be able to buy freely guns
> and ammos.....
>
> Can they speak french in the congress ????? :))))))))))
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Feb 04 12:43 PM

[longoil:]

Gtmcduffy,

Thanks for lining up the nine states for us.
But Canada has a few conditions as well before entering this deal.

1) Need to run a credit check on the US.
2) Need to see if any leading government officials have evaded taxes in the past.
3) We will require a very large bailout payment too. It seems everyone who is big enough requests and usually gets them (banks, auto makers, California, porn industry, etc). Canada is certainly big enough.
4) We don't mind gets occasional visits from Obama, but please keep Hillary (and Bill) in Washington.

Feb 04 02:04 PM

[gtmcduffy@g...:]

I'll go you one better. How 'bout we make Dick Cheney in charge of Quebec. Now wouldn't that be something...

It is mind-boggling, actually, that the US Constitution pre-approved Canada's potential entre into the Union- and that it holds to this day. Talk about our founding forefathers having foresight. They obviously knew that one day- someone like me would write an article like this and start a movement to bring Canada into the US. I think you Canadians should get a referendum going- "yes or no"- on the idea. Hillary Clinton, as Secretary Of State- can come up and stump for Cheney...get the party started.


On Feb 04 02:04 PM longoil wrote:

> Gtmcduffy,
>
> Thanks for lining up the nine states for us.
> But Canada has a few conditions as well before entering this deal.
>
>
> 1) Need to run a credit check on the US.
> 2) Need to see if any leading government officials have evaded taxes
> in the past.
> 3) We will require a very large bailout payment too. It seems everyone
> who is big enough requests and usually gets them (banks, auto makers,
> California, porn industry, etc). Canada is certainly big enough.
>
> 4) We don't mind gets occasional visits from Obama, but please keep
> Hillary (and Bill) in Washington.

Feb 04 08:36 PM

[abcde_98:]

Well if your USD currency has any staying power and gets to par or better than the Euro dollar, then we can start talking.

Why talk about Euro? well,
1) presumption is the CAD would be along for the ride, thus also gain
2) Euro is has gained considerably, so if you get back to 1:1 exchange, it will demonstrate strength (versus "E. dysfunction")

How to do it?
1) use your ingenuity to create robustnesss
2) bring other economies down with you, but bring them down more
3) whether domestic ('made in america') or imported ingenuity, it doesn't matter; quit making excuses, double-talk of wanting a strong dollar, and "just do it"

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Sent from my Blackberry (Canadian made, by RIM - Research in Motion)

Feb 05 08:36 AM

[Booming Future:]

What a cheeky bastard you are. You know zero about either country's history or economics and yet you plod through a tiresome discussion of what it would be like if Canada and the US were one nation. Wow I've never heard anyone suggest that before, gee.

By the way, what has this article got to do with Potash, where Yahoo Finance stuck it?

You also don't seem to realize that Canada and the US have been best trading partners for decades going on centuries, it's nothing new, nor are all the resources you mentioned.

Lastly, I see you as a basketball getting repeatedly dunked when I reread that you don't think Canadians have a serious identity. You're a laughably ignorant jerk who doesn't belong on a finance site.

Feb 05 08:25 PM

[longoil:]

gtmcduffy,

At first I thought your Dick Cheney idea might work if we changed his name to Richard Duchene, but with that weak heart of his (a pre-existing condition) he would bankrupt our country with his medical bills in no time.

You guys are a bit too socialist for us. You spend hundreds of billions of dollars bailing out incompetently run businesses (i.e. banks and auto industry) for their losses. I like the old America better which was based on Darwinian principals, where the fittest businesses survive and the weak ones don't.

Feb 06 08:31 AM

[Booming Future:]

I repeat, what has this article got to do with Potash, other than mentioning it as an example of a global Canadian-based resource company, along with several others? Did you need a key word to get it placed on a Yahoo Finance stock site?

I read your entire article, which was hard for a native Canadian like myself to do because it was so laced with insults and back-handed compliments to Canada and Canadians. You included alot of details, like I said in my first comment, but still managed to come off as a garden variety ignoramous about Canada, maybe because you've never lived in Canada.

Feb 07 11:53 AM

[Booming Future:]

The British army was filled with Canadian volunteers, who don't get nearly as much press as the "minutemen".


On Feb 02 01:43 PM john s. gordon wrote:

> mr, ward - white house got burned down by the british army (not the
> canadian army) because the u.s forces had gone up to york & burned
> the place down. if the us. army had been up to snuff they would have
> repulsed the brits @ the battle of bladensburg.

Feb 07 12:18 PM

[Booming Future:]

I apologize for you apologizing for Canadians.

On Feb 02 06:14 PM User 151885 wrote:

> I apologize for all this canadian blather from my friends and citizens.
>
> They are so self-righteous but do not likely know that our national
> government pension plan managers bought 30,000,000 shares of Nortel,
> it's now in bankruptcy, and our government has to, and is, bailing
> them out.
> sorry... but the reality is we've also got some work to do.
> I was pleased for the video from Barstow with all the snow. Great
> treat for the kids who are used to 115 degree temperatures.
> Cheers!!

Feb 07 12:25 PM

[Booming Future:]

So you're a "touch nerves" style of writer; wow, how original. But no one can lay one on you, eh?

The more you write, the more facts you get wrong. The French were defeated by the British in 1763, not 1760. Or was that an intentional mistake, oh evil genius?

Canadian resources are probably less developed than if they were American, but that's by popular assent and a good piece of luck, since it means the world has some reserves, specifically, Canada's world.


On Feb 02 04:29 PM gtmcduffy wrote:

> Ah- so many riled up Canadians- and so little time. At least Bryan
> Adams had the guts to be a proud Canadian (and an extremely talented
> one at that).
>
> It comes as no surprise to me that there are so many angry Canucks
> who have responded to my article. Because I have touched a nerve.
> Which was one of my intentions.
>
> You see- up in the Great While North- you have so many incredible
> resources- yet 99% of you are being shut out of the wealth. Which
> is sad. The government up there gives you hockey and beer to keep
> you happy and stupid- and deflects you from asking the questions
> that need to be asked of your political and business leaders.
>
> Additionally- you are letting China buy up your great country piece
> by piece. Your complacency in this regard is troubling.
>
> When you all finish your beers and Tim Hortons- why don't you all
> get to work- and put your leaders to task- and stop letting them
> pull the wool over your eyes.
>
> The truth is that the combined US and Canada would be a spectacular
> entity- but your Loyalist and French lineages have come back to haunt
> you. The French were defeated in your territory in 1760- and were
> relegated to oblivion up there- and yet they've grown over the last
> 249 years to become 7.5 million strong- almost a quarter of your
> population. Nearly half of them want absolutely nothing to do with
> you English Canadians. Rene Levesque almost did you in.
>
> And your ties to the "Queen" have long been defunct. You are all
> holding onto some vague genetic loyalty to Ol' King George from back
> in the 1700's.
>
> Wake up Canadians- and join us. All you lose is the alcohol content
> in your beer- and the world's most ridiculous national anthem, "O
> Canada". But, you gain Greatness in its stead. If you need someone
> to teach you our national anthem or America The Beautiful- let me
> know- and I'll help you out.
>
> GT McDuffy
>
> On Feb 02 03:37 PM yellowhoard wrote:

Feb 07 12:44 PM

[D from TO:]

Several issues with this article:

1. We have an extensive free-trade agreement already, political union makes no sense. At most I can see an EU-type agreement where we unify with with one currency.

2. As much resources as Canada has, it is still fairly traded to the US, and our trade balance will be limited, because we buy our stuff from you anyway.

3. We would integrate with the US more if you maintained your industry, but you guys are not producing enough, so we both have to resort to buying Asian 'goods'.

4. We tend to get along with most Americans, unfortunately the South (esp. South-East US) is just too different in terms of values.

5. We like to be in charge of our own destiny, as our fellow Quebecois have said we want to be "maîtres chez nous".

Feb 07 09:32 PM

[Booming Future:]

From Wikipedia (which you probably also think of sardonically):

"The Province of Quebec was founded in the Royal Proclamation of 1763 after the Treaty of Paris formally transferred the French colony of Canada[16] to Britain after the Seven Years' War."

Who would have known that you had your own date for the end of the French in Quebec? The end of battles doesn't mean the end of government. And anyway, if you knew more about Quebec history, you'd know that after the Treaty of Paris, the British mandated that Quebec keep its language, laws, and culture to a great degree, as they thought it would make it easier to govern them this way.

On Feb 07 04:14 PM gtmcduffy wrote:

> All of my facts are correct. In 1760- The Battle of Restigouche was
> the last battle between France and Britain for possession of Canada,
> during the Seven Years' War. Also- on September 8, 1760 Montreal
> capitulated when Governor Vaudreuil surrendered to the British army
> on the terms of a treaty of capitulation (Articles of Capitulation
> of Montreal). I count the "end of the French" as the end of the battle
> of Sainte-Foy in 1760- although some begin counting form 1759- which
> would make 2009 the 250th Anniversary
>
> www.ccbn-nbc.gc.ca/_en...
>
> For someone who prides themselves on being s true Canadian- maybe
> you should learn more about your history.
>
> Obviously- I can, indeed, be sardonic (as is my style) ...and I don't
> mind riling up certain folks in the spirit of making certain points.
> Surely- you Canadians can take it. Although, obviously, some Canadians
> can get quite defensive- as we can see from various replies.
>
> Fact is- the sheer amount of talent up in Canada is staggering. Mind
> boggling. Per capita- Canada has provided an amazing number of brilliant
> singers, comedians and actors, etc Not to mention some incredible
> athletes.
>
> My article was about uniting all that talent and all those resources
> into one great nation- and opening the border once and for all. As
> for me "prodding" you Canadians- it was all in good fun. Get over
> it...
>
> On Feb 07 12:44 PM Can-Ammer wrote:

Feb 08 12:51 PM

[BrentSchn:]

I say you give us everything except Quebec and the Newfy's. We want access to the Candadian Ballet at the 1.25 Candadian Dollar rate as part of the purchase agreement. You can also keep Celine Dion.

Feb 08 09:01 PM

[BrentSchn:]

Canada can keep Quebec and the NewFy's and we'll get the rest. We want a written agreement allowing Americans to continue to get 1.25 exchange rate for our dollar so we can go to the cheap Canadian Ballet. You can keep Celine Dion too.

Feb 08 09:04 PM

[Booming Future:]

You don't get to set the rules about when posts end, even on your own blog.

You are nothing but a blubbering mass of insults when you get rankled. Also, you have no brain for diplomacy, as the Treaty of Paris does count as the point at which the "French were done" in Canada, they had the option to keep it but declined, as you can read on Wikipedia as well as I can.

And finally, you mentioned Potash once, along with some other Canadian companies, yet it was listed under the Potash heading on Yahoo Finance, I'm sure you're well aware of what I'm referring to. I opened this article to read something about Potash, and found Nothing about it as an investment. Mentioning it isn't enough.


On Feb 08 04:03 PM gtmcduffy wrote:

> Like I said - "The French were defeated in your territory in 1760."
> You keep going on and on about Quebec's foundation and post-battle
> treaties..none of which I is relevant- nor what I am referring to.
> 1760 was the pivotal year. That was the last year of any battle between
> the British and the French. It was "over" for the French in 1760.
> It is the year that historians refer to as well (and 1759). GET IT
> THROUGH YOUR THICK HEAD.
>
> This is the end of this thread. You are making a fool of yourself.
> You can't read properly- and, as I've said- your Potash statement
> alone shows your ignorance.
> There will be no more back and forth between you and I from my end.
> I'm sure you will continue to post- as you seem to be obsessed with
> this. Get a life.. By now you could have written an entire article
> and had it published- that is, if any site (other than your own)
> will actually publish you....oops.
>
> On Feb 08 12:51 PM Can-Ammer wrote:

Feb 09 01:06 PM

[User 354468:]

Quick my friends, We must retreat. We stayed too close to the border and they have seen our way of life. Our Yankee friends are on to us.We must throw up the great white wall and hide our bounty from the slimy fingers of Yankee congress. They think we want to join them because we throw a little oil, lumber,Iron ore,potash,diamonds,go... and the odd comedian there way. The world knows what they are. They will make lies and hurl insults at us. They are only
interested in one thing and that appears when they try to make fun of it.
Yes I mean BEER, oh and maybe a few babes.

Feb 10 12:50 PM

[Teutonic Kn...:]

This debate about the union of Canada and the United States had been long drawn ever since the American Revolution, and well-articulated over the centuries. Below i listed some of my lowly humble and layman views.

1) Ironically, the War of 1812 was started, in part, as one of America's attempts to annex Canada. While the War's outcome was inconclusive, inasmuch as historians label it as a draw, it revealed one stark fact that might be relevant even to this date -- Americans then and now over-estimated the willingness of the Canadians to join the United States. At the time of 1812, Southern Ontario was predominantly settled by pre-and post- Revolutionary War "Americans" who would like to pursue a living and lifestyle other than that of the new republic, an undercurrent unheeded by the American invading forces who learned their lessons the hard, and surprising way.

2) Over on the Quebec side, as was called the Lower Canada at the time, the situation was somewhat different. Again, the Americans, hoping that the French Quebecers would quickly jump on the bandwagon to out their British masters, found that both the powerful Catholic Church and the French populists were having second thoughts of the fear of being overwhelmingly amalgamated into an Anglo-Saxon protestant pot.

I could go on and on about the Maritime side of the country. The author's point is correct. We Americans would probably stay neutral to positive on the idea of annexation - a common Norther American culture, common language, even common accent on the Upstate NY Niagara side, common infrastructure and transportation systems, (except Canada's metric system!).

However, based on the historic perspectives that I briefly outlined above, I do not believe that they (the Canadians) are ready (to join us), as yet.

Time will tell and things might change, who knows!

Feb 10 02:29 PM

[Jesse99:]

lebenstraum?

Mar 19 12:58 PM