Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada's Tenth Province:
1949-Onward

A referendum is a vote in which everyone is asked how they feel about one question. It took two referenda to decide what would happen to Newfoundland. Finally, 52.34% of the people said that Newfoundland should join Canada. After Newfoundland became a province, elections were finally held again. In May of 1949, the first election was held in Newfoundland since 1932. Once again, people were allowed to have their say in government.

1949

March 31: Newfoundland and Labrador becomes Canada's tenth province.
 

May: In the first election since 1932, the first provincial election, Liberal Joseph R. Smallwood becomes premier. Cabinet is elected rather than appointed for the first time.
 

There are 2,382 hospital beds in Newfoundland and Labrador. 14 cottage hospitals have been built.

1951

There are 41 hospitals in Newfoundland and Labrador.
 

February: Under the new laws of Canada, Chinese immigrants in Newfoundland are now allowed to become citizens. The first ten Chinese Newfoundlanders are sworn in as citizens of Canada.

 

November: 2nd provincial election. Joseph R. Smallwood is re-elected as premier.

1952

The provincial Arts and Letters competition is established.

 

A hospital opens in Port aux Basques.

 

The government of Newfoundland attempts to end relief for able-bodied unemployed.