The Shocking Truth Behind Censorship of Canada Media During World War II

When we think of World War II, our minds often wander to images of brave soldiers, heroic acts, and historical battles. However, amidst the chaos of war, a lesser-known chapter unraveled – the pervasive censorship of Canada's media. This article will delve into the depths of this dark era, shedding light on the shocking truth behind the control of information during World War II.

The Beginning of Censorship in Canada

Canada entered World War II in September 1939, alongside its allies, pledging its commitment to the defeat of the Axis powers. As the nation faced its first wartime situation since Confederation, the government quickly realized the need to regulate news and information flowing to the public.

The War Measures Act of 1914 was invoked, granting the government extensive powers to control media content. This Act provided the authorities with the legal framework to censor newspapers, magazines, and other forms of communication. Journalists were required to submit their work for review before publication, often resulting in significant alterations or outright rejection.

The Fog of War: Censorship of Canada's Media in World War II

by Mark Bourrie(Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	1294 KB
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The Role of the Department of National War Services

Under the guidance of the Department of National War Services (DNWS),which was responsible for all aspects of government propaganda during the war, the Canadian government tightly controlled the narrative presented to its citizens. The DNWS employed a vast network of censors, whose task was to review and regulate all news sources, ensuring they aligned with the government's objectives.

The Impact on Journalism

Censorship had a profound impact on journalism and the media industry throughout Canada. Journalists faced unprecedented restrictions on their reporting and were often forced to adhere strictly to the government's narratives. This control over information flow led to a significant decline in critical investigative reporting, as news outlets primarily became conduits for government-approved information.

The censorship measures extended beyond print media. Radio broadcasts, which were a popular medium for news and entertainment, were also placed under government scrutiny. Preapproved scripts were mandatory for radio programs, and news bulletins often had to be cleared by censors before going on air. This level of control ensured that any news reaching the public was carefully tailored to fit the government's wartime objectives.

The Nexus of National Security and Propaganda

While censorship during wartime is often justified as a necessary measure to maintain national security, the line between protecting citizens and manipulating public opinion is often blurred. The Canadian government walked this line carefully as it sought to control the narrative while ensuring public support for the war effort. In doing so, they inadvertently restricted the freedom of the press and stifled alternative perspectives.

Proponents of censorship argue that wartime conditions necessitate the prioritization of national security over individual liberties. However, critics contend that censorship during World War II had a lasting impact beyond the immediate conflict. It raised important questions about the role of the government in controlling information and the duty of the press to serve as a watchdog for democracy.

The Legacy of Canada's Media Censorship

While media censorship during World War II was a response to unique circumstances, its repercussions continued long after the war had ended. The erosion of journalistic independence and the normalization of government control over information severely impacted press freedom in Canada.

As we reflect on this dark period in Canada's history, it is crucial to consider the lessons learned. The delicate balance between national security and protecting democratic values remains an ongoing challenge for modern societies. The legacy of media censorship during World War II serves as a reminder to continuously question the actions of our governments and preserve the fundamental principles of freedom of the press.

The Fog of War: Censorship of Canada's Media in World War II

by Mark Bourrie(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1294 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	346 pages

FREE

The Canadian government censored the news during World War II for two main reasons: to keep military and economic secrets out of enemy hands and to prevent civilian morale from breaking down. But in those tumultuous times - with Nazi spies landing on our shores by raft, U-boat attacks in the St. Lawrence, army mutinies in British Columbia and Ontario and pro-Hitler propaganda in the mainstream Quebec press - censors had a hard time keeping news events contained.

Now, with freshly unsealed World War II press-censor files, many of the undocumented events that occurred in wartime Canada are finally revealed. In Mark Bourrie's illuminating and well-researched account, we learn about the capture of a Nazi spy-turned-double agent, the Japanese-Canadian editor who would one day help develop Canada's medicare system, the curious chiropractor from Saskatchewan who spilled atomic bomb secrets to a roomful of people and the use of censorship to stop balloon bomb attacks from Japan. The Fog of War investigates the realities of media censorship through the experiences of those deputized to act on behalf of the public and reveals why press censorship in wartime Canada was, at best, a hit-and-miss game.