| From October 1932 until June 1936, the Canadian Department of National Defence operated relief camps for single, homeless men. Many of Canada's social problems during the 1930's came into focus around the Unemployment Relief camps, and indeed, fear of social upheaval had prompted their establishment.; After World War I, similar fears had been expressed when the problems of readjustment fostered discontent which found its most vivid expression in the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919. Prosperity silenced most complaint during the 1920's and optimism rose to great heights. Even the crash of 1929 did not immediately destroy confidence. But as conditions grow steadily worse, and unemployment increased, discontent became more vocal. Canada's receding prosperity was accompanied by increased suffering and unrest, especially among unemployed single men. Major-General A.G.L. McNaughton was aware of the possibility of disorder, and suggested that the establishment of relief camps for single, homeless men might help to preserve civil peace. After an initial delay, his proposal was approved by the Cabinet on October 8, 1932, and implemented with surprising speed. The scheme was operating within a month of its formal approval. |
