Bounded by three great oceans, Canada stands as a maritime nation with rich seafaring traditions. Born of both national and British imperial interests in 1910 and maturing in two world wars, its navy is a vital national institution that continues to evolve in response to new and complex challenges. This volume explores the decisive formative forces of the navy’s history and illuminates the characteristically Canadian elements and values that have defined it. Such issues covered include: the popular perception of the Canadian navy; the navy as an instrument of national policy; the impact of various wars and conflicts; the navy as an expression of Canadian society; the distinctive role of women and the integration of francophone Canadians; and the future direction of Canadian naval policy.