Constitutional reform, referendums and sovereignty association: Quebec's search for a distinct society in Canada

Given its linguistic, political, and socio‐cultural differences, Quebec had long sought independence from the rest of Canada. Under the leadership of its separatist provincial party, and with a representation at the federal level as well, Quebecers went to the polls to vote for separation from Canada on two separate occasions. In the most recent case (1995), they narrowly rejected separation and voted to remain within Canada. Since then, the pressure to separate has all but disappeared from the political discussion. This paper explores the reasons why the intent to separate has waxed and waned over the years, along with the economic outcomes for the province.