Introduction

In the late-19th century Canadian society was making great strides in urbanization and industrialisation. The massive changes that were taking place at an ever increasing rate had significant sociological effects. The advent of new technologies and the reorganization of the workplace led to the establishment of many more craft unions and industrial unions. Recognition of social problems such as alcoholism, unsanitary conditions in poor neighbourhoods, high infant mortality and discrimination against women was followed by the launching of reformist organisations. The prohibition movement fought to ban the production and consumption of alcohol. At the dawn of the new century, insistent appeals were made to employers, to public opinion and to governments to eradicate flagrant injustices and social evils.