No NORAD

What if NORAD had never existed, what would be the effect on the USAF and RCAF? Would some joint initiative have inevitable arisen? What was the effect of NORAD on the Unification of the Canadian Forces?

Do let me know.

Luath.
 
Would some joint initiative have inevitable arisen?

Keep Canada in the Anglo/Imperial sphere of influence, which is an entire problem in itself, so it won't turn to America.

It is inevitable that, as Canada and the US grow stronger economically and it moves away from the British sphere of influence,* since the simple size of the Empire does pose significant problems to both trade and security, that security of North American trade becomes a concern. Especially in the context of the Cold War.

*Prime Minister W.L.M. King was all about nation unity following WW1, and he believed that any Canadian commitment to the Empire would damage this unity as seen in WW1. So he was motivated in keeping Canada out of Imperial issues. So, he was more inclined to strengthening American-Canadian relations, than to the Empire. And, FDR helped out a lot as well in the 1930's.

Right before WW2, FDR come to Canada and gave a speech saying that, the USA would back and help out Canada if it became threatened by a foreign power, say Nazi Germany. This starts the process of Canadian-USA cooperation, which deepened during WW2, and will continue to evolve until we see NORAD.

Geography is a huge factor. As well as larger global issues (WW2, Cold War, etc), NORAD does seem rather inevitable. I only see a big and early POD necessary, or not having King being PM for so long could help so we have a Prime Minister who want Canada to be a central part of the Empire. Imperial Federation anyone?
 
Thanks Spit, Personally I don't really see Canada and the USA moving apart in the context of the 20th century. To much of a shared history, plus the sheer economical wash of the USA would either drag the 'True north' with it or drown it. Still what are the alternatives to NORAD? just for talks sake.
 
The big issue comes during the Cold War and the thought that the Soviets would launch an 'Over the pole' Air or missile attack on the Western Hemisphere. Without an integrated system there would not be enough reaction time for the US to defend their air space withoutviolating Canadian air space. Given the tradition that the U.S. Canadian border is the 'longest undefended border in the world' integration is the only real alternative.
 
Thanks Spit

Your welcome. :)

Still what are the alternatives to NORAD? just for talks sake.

The only alternative that I see happening is an united Imperial Federation, which would require a stronger Canadian military if it was to be efficient, or something on those lines. And, if judged by history, probably wouldn't happen.

I think you'd need a significant POD, even going far back as War of 1812, to have enough changes for something like this too happen. But again, geography plays a key role in this.
 
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