Lecture Notes: US States Joining Canada

Introduction

• Idea: US states might join Canada due to political chaos or cultural disconnect.
• Reality check: Strong economic ties and shared values make several US states more aligned with Canada.

US States That Might Join Canada

1. Maine

• Dependency on Quebec
  • Electrical grid reliant on Quebec's hydro network.
  • Canadian power accounts for ~1/3 of Maine's electricity.
  • Critical during harsh winters.
• Cultural Ties
  • St. John Valley: 25% speak French, celebrate Acadian heritage.
• Economy
  • Lobster industry ($500 million annually) depends on Canadian fishing grounds.

2. Alaska

• Geopolitical Significance
  • Only land connection via Canada.
  • 1,538-m border with British Columbia.
• Economic Dependence
  • 85% of consumer goods from Canadian infrastructure.
• Political Movements
  • Independence movements discussing sovereignty or Canadian annexation.

3. Vermont

• Independent Character
  • Existed as a republic (1777-1791).
• Economic Contributions
  • Sends $1.3 billion more to Washington than it receives.
• Alignment with Canada
  • Single-payer healthcare, environmental policies resemble Canada's.

4. Michigan

• Economic Ties
  • Detroit-Windsor corridor: manufacturing and trade hub.
• Historical Context
  • 2022 poll: 22% support exploring union with Canada.

5. Washington

• Cultural and Economic Interconnections
  • Cascadia Innovation Corridor: tech, transport, sustainability.
  • High-speed rail proposals with Vancouver.

6. Oregon

• Shared Ethos with British Columbia
  • Progressive politics, environmental consciousness.
  • Part of "Cascadia" concept.

7. Montana

• Economic and Cultural Ties with Alberta
  • $5.8 billion bilateral trade supporting 3,000 jobs.
  • Western Energy Corridor Initiative.

8. North Dakota

• Economic and Cultural Parallels with Prairie Provinces
  • Oil drilling, farming practices.
  • Shared Native American and European cultural influences.

9. Minnesota

• Cultural and Economic Parallels with Manitoba
  • Shared hockey culture, lakes, resilient spirit.
  • 2015: Exported $4.4 billion to Canada.

10. New Hampshire

• Independent Streak
  • Motto: "Live free or die."
  • Emphasis on local governance.

Conclusion

• Borders are not immutable and have shifted historically.
• Discussion centers on identity, governance, and the future in the face of political uncertainty.
• Questions remain on the feasibility and desirability of US states joining Canada.