A Step Closer
The Statute of Westminster is another very important step in Canadian Confederation. This act, passed on December 11th, 1931, gave the British Commonwealth (which includes Canada) increased independence specifically in legislative matters. Before this act was passed the British government retained the ability to create laws for the commonwealth countries without the consent of the respective governments. One of the most notable ramifications for this act is related to the World War 1 and World War 2. In 1914 the First World War began, and because Britain was at war, Canada automatically joined as well; however when the Second World War began in 1939, after the passing of the Statute of Westminster, Canada decided to join the Allies independently.