Meaning: The quote "Canada is like an old cow. The West feeds it. Ontario and Quebec milk it. And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes" by Tommy Douglas, a Canadian politician and Baptist minister, is a provocative and thought-provoking statement that sheds light on the economic and political dynamics within Canada. As a prominent figure in Canadian history, Douglas's words carry weight and reflect the sentiments of many Canadians, particularly those from the Western provinces and the Maritimes.

In this metaphor, Canada is likened to an old cow, symbolizing a longstanding and established entity that is sustained by its various regions. The West, referring to the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, is depicted as the provider, feeding the nation with its rich natural resources, particularly in the form of oil, gas, and agricultural products. This imagery captures the significant role that the Western provinces play in contributing to Canada's overall economic prosperity and development.

On the other hand, Ontario and Quebec, the country's most populous provinces and economic powerhouses, are described as the ones who "milk" Canada. This suggests that these provinces benefit disproportionately from the nation's resources and economic activity, drawing wealth and prosperity from the contributions of other regions. This sentiment reflects the historical and ongoing tensions between the more industrialized central provinces and the resource-rich but less economically powerful Western provinces.

The reference to the Maritimes, encompassing the provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, implies a sense of exploitation or neglect. By stating "And you can well imagine what it's doing in the Maritimes," Douglas highlights the economic challenges and struggles faced by these Atlantic provinces. The Maritimes have historically grappled with issues such as outmigration, economic stagnation, and dependence on federal support, leading to a sense of being left behind or overlooked in the broader Canadian landscape.

Overall, this quote encapsulates the complex and often contentious dynamics that exist within Canada's federation. It speaks to the disparities in economic power, resource distribution, and regional influence that have shaped the country's history and continue to impact its present-day political and economic landscape.

The sentiments expressed in Douglas's quote reflect longstanding debates and grievances within Canada, particularly regarding the distribution of wealth, resources, and political influence among its diverse regions. The Western provinces have often voiced concerns about feeling marginalized or undervalued in the national discourse, especially in relation to their contributions to the country's economy through resource extraction and export.

Likewise, the centralization of economic activity and political power in Ontario and Quebec has been a point of contention for many Canadians outside of these provinces. The perception of these provinces as "milking" the nation at the expense of other regions has fueled discussions about the need for greater equity and fairness in Canada's federal system.

In the context of the Maritimes, the quote underscores the challenges of regional disparities and economic hardship that have persisted in these provinces. Issues such as outmigration, limited job opportunities, and reliance on federal transfers have contributed to a sense of disillusionment and frustration among residents of the Maritimes, leading to ongoing calls for greater support and attention from the federal government.

This quote by Tommy Douglas continues to resonate with many Canadians as a poignant commentary on the intricate web of relationships and tensions that define the country's federal structure. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among Canada's diverse regions to address the disparities and challenges that persist within the nation.