10.2 Social and Political Reforms in Quebec

Quebec's Quiet Revolution brought sweeping changes to the province in the 1960s. Economic reforms nationalized key industries and established public financial institutions, aiming to boost Quebec's autonomy and development.

Education and social reforms modernized the system, reducing the Catholic Church's influence. The government took control of education, healthcare, and social services, reflecting a shift towards a more secular society.

Economic Reforms

Nationalization and Expansion of Key Industries

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• Nationalization of Hydro-Québec (1963) brought the province's hydroelectric resources under public control
  • Aimed to provide affordable electricity and stimulate economic development
  • Became a symbol of Quebec's economic autonomy and technical prowess
• Société générale de financement (1962) established as a government-owned holding company
  • Invested in and supported the growth of Quebec-based businesses
  • Focused on strategic sectors such as natural resources, manufacturing, and technology

Financial Institutions and Pension Funds

• Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (1965) created as a public pension fund manager
  • Invested in Quebec companies and projects to promote economic growth
  • Became one of Canada's largest institutional investors (over $400 billion in assets as of 2022)
• Quebec Pension Plan (1966) introduced as a parallel to the Canada Pension Plan
  • Provided retirement benefits and disability insurance for Quebec workers
  • Contributed to the Caisse de dépôt's investment capital and Quebec's financial autonomy

Education and Social Reforms

Modernization of the Education System

• Ministry of Education established (1964) to oversee and reform Quebec's education system
  • Replaced the Catholic Church's control over education
  • Aimed to improve access, quality, and efficiency of education at all levels
• Parent Commission (1961-1966) conducted a comprehensive study of Quebec's education system
  • Recommended sweeping reforms, including the creation of the Ministry of Education
  • Led to the establishment of the CEGEP system (pre-university and technical colleges)

Secularization of Public Institutions

• Laicization (secularization) of public institutions and services during the 1960s
  • Reduced the influence of the Catholic Church in areas such as education, healthcare, and social services
  • Reflected changing social attitudes and the desire for a more modern, secular society
• Examples of laicization include:
  • Removal of religious instruction from public schools
  • Adoption of secular names for schools, hospitals, and other institutions (e.g., "Sainte-Justine" became "Hôpital Sainte-Justine")
  • Transfer of responsibility for social services from religious orders to the provincial government