Canadian Wartime Contributions

by Angela Sanford

Honoring our veterans is deeply meaningful to me. During the moment of silence, I reflect on the roles my family members have played in serving our country and protecting our freedoms. Their sacrifices remind me that the values we cherish today were hard-won through courage and commitment.

     In addition to the bravery of our veterans, wartime necessity has also given rise to important inventions that have become essential in civilian life, many of which are still widely used today. Here are three significant Canadian contributions:

Walkie-Talkies

     Initially developed for battlefield communication, walkie-talkies made their way into civilian life in the late 1940s, particularly for outdoor recreation. Over time, they have become smaller, more durable, and more efficient. While advances in smartphones have limited the widespread use of walkie-talkies, they remain popular in settings where cell coverage is limited and among specific groups like outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders.

Insulin

     Discovered just before World War I, insulin became available in time for diabetic soldiers to manage their health while serving. Though its announcement in 1921 sparked some controversy, people with diabetes welcomed this breakthrough, as it dramatically improved their quality of life and reduced the risk of early death.

Pablum

     Developed by pediatricians in the 1930s, Pablum was designed to combat infant malnutrition in wartime, as high rates of infant mortality due to malnutrition had been recorded in Canada. Pablum quickly became a household staple across North America and remains a popular choice for babies and young children today.

     These inventions, born out of necessity, have had lasting impacts, continuing to enhance daily life and public health long after their military origins. Just as our veterans fought bravely to secure our freedoms and way of life, these innovations serve as a reminder of the enduring contributions made during wartime—both in human sacrifice and in advancements that improve our lives. Both our veterans and these inventions exemplify resilience, innovation, and the profound impact of service, each playing a vital role in shaping the world we live in today.

Sources

Bliss,M.  2015. The Discovery of Insulin. The Canadian Encyclopedia.

Bradburn, J. 2022. Pablum. The Canadian Encyclopedia.

OS Comms (retrieved October 2024) The First Walkie Talkies – The History of Radio Communications