Revisiting ten notable days from recent history, Aaron W. Hughes invites readers to think about the tensions, events, and personalities that make Canada distinct. These indelible dates interweave to offer an account of the political, social, cultural, and demographic forces that have shaped the modern nation. The diverse episodes include the enactment of the War Measures Act, hockey’s Summit Series, the patriation of the Constitution, the Multiculturalism Act, the École Polytechnique Massacre, victories for gay rights, Quebec’s second referendum on secession, The Tragically Hip’s farewell concert, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and ongoing Black equality struggles. Each day represents a window on contemporary Canada, jumpstarting reflection and conversation about who we are as a nation and how we got here. Ten Days That Shaped Modern Canada is the perfect guide for all those curious about the forces that shape our country and about how we understand our place in the world.

Edmonton-born Aaron W. Hughes is the Philip S. Bernstein Professor of Religious Studies and International Relations at the University of Rochester, New York. He is the author of 21 books, editor of 12 volumes, and writer of over 100 book chapters and articles. Hughes frequently appears in the media, including The New York Times, NPR, CBC, The Globe and Mail, National Post, Calgary Herald, and Edmonton Journal.

Aaron Hughes' profile page

"Hughes does not pick his days at random. These are hinge points in the making of a modern state…. 10 Days That Shaped Modern Canada tells several striking stories. A very readable book, it offers some new and exciting interpretations of a number of old themes and topics. Not every reader will agree with the author’s point of view or his choice of days. But this is part of the volume’s charm.… the days highlighted by Aaron W. Hughes illustrate that in order to understand who we are as a national community, it is essential to be aware of where we came from.” Matthew J. Bellamy, Literary Review of Canada, January/February 2023

"10 Days is quirky and compelling. It is excellent book club material. It is a good way to start a fight." Holly Doan, Blacklock's Reporter, September 3, 2022 [full review at https://www.blacklocks.ca/review-memories]