Canada and Colonialism

Canada and Colonialism presents the history Canadians must reckon with before decolonization is possible, from the nation’s establishment as a settler colony to the discriminatory legacies still at work in our institutions and culture.

Jim Reynolds spent over four decades serving as legal counsel to First Nations in Canada, including thirteen years as general counsel for the Musqueam Band. Now retired from active practice, he writes on colonialism and Aboriginal law in Canada. He holds a PhD from the London School of Economics, where he also taught. His most recent books include Aboriginal Peoples and the Law: A Critical Introduction and From Wardship to Rights: The Guerin Case and Aboriginal Law. He lives in Vancouver, BC.

"This is not a book of mere academic interest: it is driven by a deeply held commitment to ensure that all Canadians, particularly those of settler background, understand the ways in which colonialism has not only shaped but also inhibited movement towards meaningful reconciliation."

Robin Fisher:

"Reynolds’ book conveys a message that Canadians should hear and act upon."

Books for School:

"Essential reading and reference source."

Kent McNeil, professor emeritus, Osgoode Hall Law School, York University:

Jim Reynolds makes a significant, original contribution to our understanding of contemporary Canada by situating its colonization within the broader British imperial project. Canada and Colonialism should be read by anyone seeking a deeper understand of the Crown’s historical and ongoing relationship with Indigenous peoples.

Alan Lester FRHistS, Professor of Historical Geography and Director of Research, School of Global Studies, University of Sussex, Adjunct Professor of History, La Trobe University, and author of The Truth About Empire:

"I’d thoroughly recommend this book. Even aside from the excellent analysis of Canadian settler colonialism, it is a great introduction to the history of British imperial administration as a whole."