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Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

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Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

A Close Call For Canada

Whew! After a very close vote, many Canadians are relieved. Voters in the province of Quebec chose to remain part of Canada rather than form their own nation. But Quebec and Canada still have problems to work out.

The vote last Monday could hardly have been closer: 50.6% of Quebeckers voted against separation, while 49.4% voted for the split.

Most Canadians are pleased that Canada will not be divided. But many French-speaking Quebeckers are angry. Some fought in the streets. Others set fire to a government building. Quebec's disappointed leader, Jacques Parizeau, resigned from office the day after the vote.

Quebec may try again for independence. But Canada's Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and others are working to keep the country together. Chrétien has promised to give Quebec more control in the government if it stays within Canada. He is trying to show the people of Quebec that "Canada can work for them."

Next: A New Way To Count