question 9

Question 1

What is the eugenics movement?

Answer 1

The eugenics movement, emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, believed that human society could be improved by controlling reproduction to increase desirable traits and reduce undesirable ones. This included methods like selective breeding, sterilization, and reproductive interventions.

Question 2

Hitler and Eugenics

Answer 2

Positive Eugenics: The Nazis encouraged those seen as “racially superior” (like Aryans) to have more children, offering rewards and incentives for large families.

Negative Eugenics: The Nazis tried to prevent “undesirable” people, like those with disabilities or certain ethnic groups, from reproducing. They implemented forced sterilization programs and later escalated to genocide during the Holocaust, targeting groups they deemed inferior.

Question 3

Eugenics Movement in Canada

Answer 3

Canada also had a eugenics movement, especially in Alberta and British Columbia, where laws led to the forced sterilization of thousands of individuals, including those with disabilities and Indigenous people.

Question 4

alberta and british columbia

Answer 4

Alberta: The Sexual Sterilization Act (1928) allowed sterilizations, which continued until 1972.
British Columbia: Similar laws passed in 1933 led to more forced sterilizations.

Question 5

Eugenics

Answer 5

Though eugenics lost support after World War II, its legacy, especially in regard to Indigenous communities and other marginalized groups, is still a topic of reflection and apology.