John Wilson (historian)

John Wilson (born 1922, died 2018) was a Canadian historian specializing in the political and military history of Canada, particularly during the period of Confederation and the two World Wars. He held professorships at several Canadian universities, including the University of Waterloo, where he was instrumental in developing its history program.

Wilson's research focused on the evolution of Canadian national identity, the relationship between Canada and Great Britain, and the impact of war on Canadian society and politics. He authored and co-authored several influential books and articles, making significant contributions to the field of Canadian historical studies. His works are characterized by rigorous scholarship, clear prose, and a balanced perspective.

Key Works:

• When the Going Was Good: Canada to 1945 (Co-authored with Robert Bothwell and Ian Drummond) - A standard textbook on Canadian history covering the period up to the end of World War II.
• Various articles and chapters on Canadian Confederation, military history, and political development.

Legacy:

John Wilson's work continues to be studied by scholars and students of Canadian history. He is remembered for his dedication to teaching, his commitment to historical accuracy, and his significant contributions to our understanding of Canada's past. His scholarship has shaped the interpretation of key events and periods in Canadian history for subsequent generations of historians.