I am Canadian living in the U.S. and I do see the differences stated in this article. It sometimes can be a different world even though the two countries are so close together.

That was rather enlightening.

O..I think everyone all over the world sees us as patriotic, opinionated and most of all materialistic! That is nothing new! As for what we Americans think of Canada...well suffice to say most of us if we are being honest don't even think of them nor do we care to. Just being honest!!

Cindy...Ga.

Trust me--–everything is not what it appears to be.

This article is insulting. Stop talking down to us like we're pleebs.

This is all heart-warming, however as being a Canadian who has lived in the USA now for 9 years, Americans do not care about Canada and for that matter, what goes on outside their own state, if they even know where it is. Also, there is no reason for Canada to be in Afghanistan, period.

you are absoluty correct, but also i might add, that besides looking north, americans should look south, to latin america, and the carribean, there is no way possible to have secure borders, without secure economies, and is my beleived that president obamas, and secretary clinton start a new era of relationship with the south, to help the struggling economies and talk tough to latin american politians, you want help, this is the way to go, otherwise dont bother.
vg

Sadly I think many Americans have the same attitude as Cindy but thankfully not all.

To Cindy –
You said Americans do not think about Canada and nor do they even care to. I guess the same applies to almost every other nation in the world, too, at least in your opinion. No wonder America is left alone. "We are ready to lead once more", President Obama said in his inauguration speech. Well, America may be ready to lead, but what if the rest of the world is no longer ready to follow? Sorry to say, but this world isn't just about America and Americans.

Obama will return, the unwritten tradition that the majority of American presidents meet, the first official visit abroad was to Canada.

In a globalized world, until the economic crisis, does not belong to a particular country.

It is usually use the term "contagion" to describe the process by which successively the economies of various countries will be incurring due to negative expectations and the fault of the failure of the international system of credit. But "contagion" suggests that it would be possible to prevent the "disease", provided that the potential victim have maintained is isolated from an outbreak of infection (in case the USA. economy).

From what I read, Obama find a Canada not very contaminated with the economic crisis, but in a deep political crisis, where something is happening that never happened before, the opposition parties came together and became majority and can now throw down the first Minister, a few months after re-election.

That is right?
I can not see, that USA was overturned their guts, because of the economic crisis, and some other country can even be immune to it.

But just wait until February 19 and watch AC360º.

I find Canada to be more patriotic since they give more coverage to the war in Afghanistan and they also honor the dead coming back with coverage. America on the other hand has practically zero coverage of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan and when there is – it's sugar coated. We are not allowed to see our fallen soldiers be brought back in a flag draped coffin and taken off the plane. What is this country trying to hide?

Would we, the reader define Americans as, Ethnocentric? Based on this article, I would say, yes. It appears that not only based on the information above, but by the comments below, American’s just do not care what is happening outside of our immediate surroundings. I found this article quite interesting. Not only did it peek my interests as I had to think, what the capital of Canada was, but how guided we are by mass media and its ability to control the masses.

“Ray B. Browne defined popular culture as the cultural world around us, that is, our attitudes, habits, and actions: how we act and why we act; what we eat and wear; our buildings, roads, and means of travel; our entertainment and sports; our politics, religion, and medical practices; our beliefs and activities and what shape and control them. In other words, it is to us what water is to fish; it is the world we live in.”

I suppose without great writers such as Dave Schechter informing us on such interesting trivia questions such as, who is the prime minister of Canada. And, fun facts such as, “The Canadians have some 2,500 soldiers in southern Afghanistan, based at Kandahar.” We as ethnocentric Americans might not ever know.

I live just across the river from Canada and used to visit there often. I like the country and its a shame that people like Cindy from GA don't care to learn anything about it. Do you realize that during the Iran hostage crisis in he 1980's that it was the Canadians who made several of the American diplomats from our embassy in Tehran welcome. And yes there is more to Canada than hockey. They take pride in keeping their cities beautiful and crime free unlike several large American cities which shall remain nameless.

I do hope that President Obama can foster better relations with them than we have had in the recent past.

Canadians are extremely patriotic and Canadian business go out of their way to keep businesses in Canada. Canada does a better job promoting Canadian industries than the US does promoting US industries (see: outsourcing if you don't believe me). Canada also pays a lot more attention to Environmental issues.

This is my opinion from my numerous visits to the Great White North.

Does anyone remember during the first Gulf War when President Bush refused to allow photographers at Dover AFB (where the soldiers in caskets were brought)? I do.

I'll go with the idea that,

Canada is like Honduras – only colder and much less interesting

Dave, Thanks for discussing some of the important aspects of the Canada-US relationship, and issues that need to be discussed. It's not very often that Canada is even acknowledged on CNN or other US news programs. Right now a big concern here is the "buy American" , protectionist policies of the proposed, stimulus package. We are very proud or our troops who are serving in Afghanistan, and are quite aware of deaths, as we do see the ramp ceremony in Kandahar, the arrival in Canada, their travel on the 401 to Toronto, and sometimes hear from their families and friends. If President Obama were to visit on a Friday, he would see the "wear red to support our troops" gatherings on Fridays. Don't know if anyone from CNN will be accompanying the President on his quick visit to Ottawa, perhaps Candy Crowley, or maybe just a general press pool? In any case, hope President Obama feels welcomed to Canada and Ottawa, and I would encourage him to try a Beavertail but to stay away from the poutine! Perhaps CNN will even put Ottawa on their weather map, rather than just posting Toronto and Montreal?

Perhaps some of your less informed folks commenting here today would care to go back to SEPTEMBER 11,2001.....

and find out some info on WHERE all the planes landed that day when they were ordered to get out of the air?
We were good enough to know then,gee,it seems as if memory fades quickly.

And I am sure that many Canadians DO NOT find the U.S.very interesting either,as a previous commentor from Chicago stated about us!

Never thought myself and fellow Canadian commentors would have to defend ourselves here from the uninformed.

It's quite enlightening that Canada is being discussed on CNN. It's a very interesting article. Maybe it will spur some interest by Americans in your immediate neighbour to the north. I live in a border province so I can say I hop across all the time to buy gas because it's cheaper. We vacation in Michigan adventure parks all the time, and also go to many of the State fairs during the summer. You have such fun things going on all the time and I love going to the States. As a Canadian, I am interested in opinions from all over the world regarding politics, but I am particularly interested in the current American politics. Perhaps it's the interesting way you bring issues forward, completely fascinating. I was glued to CNN for the whole presidential election process. So one thing I can say for sure is that I find Canadians far more interested in Americans than the other way around. But then, Canadians are on the boring side.

I think we as a nation could learn a lot from Canada and could benefit from keeping their friendship. For one thing we should take a hint from them about our honored dead from Iraq and Afghanistan – its shameful that we do not follow their last journey home as the Canadians do their soldiers. If it is our military or government stopping us, then we need to change that. I didn't know that Canada was the number one exporter of oil to us; in fact, I didn't know a lot of the things mentioned in the article. We need to leave our ethnocentrism behind and learn more about Canada and hope that they will continue to be our friend.

Wow! What a rats nest this blog is going to create! People like Cindy and xtina running their mouths about my land of the free (we truly are free; not a police state with overly flooded prisions......don't go population on this, or I'll give you more populous nations to rebuttal). Most Americans I've met south of NY don't even know where Canada is (sic: "somewhere north of Chicago" etc). Canadians for the most part, myself included, like many things about America, and have friends there, but stll have a sympathy for the States due to the loud overwhelming ignorant bile sprewing we hear from the loudest and most ignorant. Sad.....Canada is one America's biggest trading partners, have gone to war (an won when we did) together and often find ourselves defending the US when we are overseas as "misunderstood". Anyway, what do I really care? I'm free, my kids have great educations, for the most part our free medical system works, and we have a high standard of living and low crime. Hmm? Sucks don't it?

As a Canadian, it is difficult to understand how little some Americans know about the vast country with whom they share a continent. They really should be grateful for such a good neighbour. Canadians, for the most part, are very pleased to have them next door

We have several Canadian friends, and they are delightful people. Who love the U.S., and yes, criticize us at times. I love the honesty.

Love Canada, too! Beautiful country, beautiful people!

There are lots of similarities between Canadians and Americans who live close to boarder, Americans who are much isolated in the world politics must realise who is closer in terms of ‘way of life and views’. It’s Canada which always stands by America in the ‘hour of need’. Most Canadian businesses share and have common objectives as American’s and most American businesses see Canada as their local business ground, having said so, in tough economic times why not two countries come together to work for joint solution, be it economy or environment. Having a long boarder dividing two countries, if there are differences, then both sides will spend huge amount of money, which can be used for more productive purposes. May be President Obama uses his first overseas visit to win-win situation rather than fighting US vs. Canada game.

Another who cares poll.

Hopefully someone told Obama that Canada isn't one of his 57 states. Of course we all know that Canada is way more than just hockey. There's the beer too

Kidding aside, I've travelled there many times, and the people ARE polite and friendly, and Toronto theater is as good as NYC.

The differences in war casualties is a diffent way of honoring the dead. The Pentagon is afraid that showing the arriving caskets would be a sign of disrespect and be a lightning rod for inappropriate protests. Remember that group who recently were protesting at soldiers funerals calling the dead soldiers murders, etc. It's different traditions for different people.

Maybe it's just my way of thinking, but, I'm choose to educated myself about topics I know little about. I won't judge Amercia because I don't live there and I don't make assumptions about people. The Americans have a bad wrap, but unless you 've lived there you can't say what the people of the country is like, hints :materalistic or any other characteristic that may offend anyone. Please remember, most people that did that poll are judging on stereotypes. But, on that topic I want to clear something up that I've heard so many times in the 18 years I have been alive. When I saw under the heading of what amercians thought of canadians only 46% was for educated. Maybe its because I am a Newfoundlander and people have told me i'm uneducated one too many times, because of where I am from.
Being born in Newfoundland or Canada even, does not mean I was born brainless.I go to school, actually I'm in my first year at Memorial Univeristy and I'm pretty sure I needed some intelligence to get there.
I don't always wear rubber boots and I may have a quick and sometimes hard -to -understand accent, but I'm educate and so are the people of my country.

Collectivley Americans are a pain in the ass. Due in part I suspect to the hype they all are steeped in from an early age from movies books songs that tend to have the country wallowing in its own self importance.
Individually Americans are just people like you and I with the same hopes dreams loves and fears.
I have many dear American friends and we tend to share the same values when you take the politics out of the picture

I like Canada, but it seems like they have more negative views of Americans than vice versa.

To Roderick In Canada,3:45 pm:

hear,hear,well said.We need to stick together on the nay sayers.

Why are we designated a FOREIGN COUNTRY?
We are not on the other side of the world,or in outer space here,for heaven sake.

I wonder how many U.S. commentors here today have EVEN HEARD of where I live?No one, perhaps,well I am on the East Coast,about as far east as they go!

I've been to Montreal many,many times,and it is a fresh breath of air both literally,and figuratively! The people are a cross-section of all nationalities,and very passive,which is very pleasurable to me,to say the least. They are alittle opinionated towards americans for valid reasons, but aren't beyond reproach in of themselves, either,...Thanks

I'm not surprised by the attitudes of Mike, xtina, Cindy etc... It all comes from ignorance and the belief that they are, in some perverted kind of way, suprior.

You're not. We are!!!!!!!!!

I was quite disappointed that Brigitte from Canada thought that Canadians were boring, but wait. She's from Ontario. Enough said.

Hey, I like Canada, beautiful country.
It isn't over populated and offers great international diversities from coast to coast.
Except for the cold temps, it actually is an ideal place to live.

I did some homework about relocating in case McCain and Palin won, I was not alone in that either.

Guess I'm biased because I grew up in upstate New York and I have many Canadian relatives, so it was always a treat to drive 'across the border' for the weekend and visit! Canada is a WONDERFUL country and we Americans should be thankful each and every day that we have a peaceful neighbor with which we share much more in common than one would imagine. Long live Canada!

Canada is great! Who else is America's hat?

One final thought after Katrina one fire department from Western Canada drove from their homes to St Bernard Parish to help with the rescue efforts they were one of the first teams there. Next time Cindy do your homework .

Dear Donna from Montreal, sorry you took offence, but I meant to say that people perceive Canadians as boring because they are always trying so hard to be politically correct, so they come across that way. But then again, I am from the boring province of Ontario, and you are from the flamboyant province of Quebec, which has its very separate way of thinking.

I know when it snows on the road I'd rather have a canadian behind the wheel of a 2-wheel drive than an american behind the wheel of a 4-wheel drive.

Obviously from the comments on this blog, we Canadians are quick to defend our country. I have travelled all over the world and have felt an overwhelming sense of pride to wear the maple leaf on my backpack.
I do, however, feel it unnecessary to loudly "prove" ourselves. We are patriotic. We are polite, educated, happy and thoughtful. But perhaps our most endearing quality is our ability to remain humble and recognize that our quiet dignity is our greatest legacy.
We line our highways and wave flags as our boys and girls come home draped in the flag they so honourably died for. We do this because it's just the right thing to do. Not because we need the world to notice how we recognize their sacrifice.

I've lived in both Canada and the US for a long time and am now living abroad in Europe. It is true that Americans don't know much about Canada, but whose to blame for that except the media and their society? The average American is just like any Canadian, gracious to thank whoever they are indebted to, just as they are ready to help other nations. But as long as the media takes Canada for granted and that their school teachers and politicians fail to mention how the great American dream is supported and fostered too by their allies, then how can we blame ordinary American citizens for their ignorance? Most Americans that go abroad recognize this deficit in their society (as well as many other problems not apparent to them while flooded by mainstream media). The more the Americans actively learn why they should appreciate their neighbours, the better off we'll all be.

Don't worry if you thought we were boring, most Canadians think we're boring too, but to their own surprise recently they realized many of us can be pretty exciting!

We can be pretty funny too, or so we like to think.

Thanks for the recognition of us up here in the Great White North eh!

Makes us feel closer to you.

I've lived in both Canada and the US for a long time and am now living abroad in Europe. It is true that Americans don't know much about Canada, but whose to blame for that except their media and their society? The average American is just like any Canadian, gracious to thank whoever they are indebted to, just as they are ready to help other nations. But as long as their media takes Canada for granted and that their school teachers and politicians fail to mention how the great American dream is supported and fostered too by their allies, then how can we blame ordinary American citizens for their ignorance? Most Americans that go abroad recognize this deficit in their society (as well as many other problems that were not apparent to them while flooded by mainstream media). The more the Americans actively learn why they should appreciate their neighbours, the better off we'll all be.

Is it necessary to label either side? Let's respect one another. I am very grateful to have neighbours at peace with each other. Thanks for your friendship.

@ Those that want to bad mouth people.....I've been to Canada several times so calling someone ignorant just looks bad on you. I have nothing against Canada but was speaking as a whole of the U.S. Most people don't care what is going on in the next state over much less the next country. Take a chill pill!

Cindy...Ga.

I have travel a great deal to Canada for work. Canadians are always surprised to find that I know anything about Canadian government. They know everything about the US. I am a proud American but Canada is an amazing place. The people are educated, proud, polite and culturally aware. We should care more how we are viewed by other countries. Canada is crucial to our success.

Cindi, you are the stereotypical American. If we suddenly stopped shipping oil to the U.S., you might care! Mike, from Syracuse, don't be so nieve. It has nothing to do with respect in not showing the caskets
arriving from Iraq and Afganistan. It's all about trying to maintain "support" for the wars! Again for those with the "who cares
about Canada" attitude. You're disgusting. Refresh your memory back to September 11th. Canada came to your rescue opening up all our runways for your planes to have a place to land! I'm sure many enlightened Americans do appreciate their northern neighbours. Maybe President

Obama will help the uneducated and uninformed in his own country learn about the "world" and not just on their little street !

to Charles at South Carolina, What does that make Mexico?

This post is wonderful! I'm a dual citizen, but haven't lived there since I was a kid.
I'm returning so I can afford to go to college. I've worked really hard my first 2 years, and only have 40 credit hours left before I graduate. In transferring, I'll lose a lot of credits, but at least I can graduate.

I'm glad to be heading somewhere so conscious of world affairs.

I am Canadian and live in the US a few months each year. I dearly love the US and admire so much about your country. It amazes me that even highly educated Americans know so little about Canada, and indeed about the international world in general.

I wonder if an article from the US about Canada will ever be written that won't mention hockey, even in jest.

probably not.

I appreciated this article.It was very informative.Good job !

Pietra,Jamaica

Come to the Olympics in Vancouver next year. We can get to know each other better then!

Alicia your comments are to be commended very well said.
I have nothing negative to say about Americans. They display their pride in their Nation more openly than Canadians do and some consider that to be feelings of superiority. I don't. We too are proud of our Nation we are just more humble as Alicia pointed out. The Canadians I know feel Americans are our friends and would be there in a heartbeat to help if needed. I am disappointed to hear many Americans don't the same towards us. I remember 9/11 vividly. We werer in Halifax at a Hotel they advised all that FLights would be cancelled, highways would jammed. We met many at coffee stops from N.York, Mass, who had family in the Towers very distaught. Our hearts were there with them. Many Canadians we met that day were as sad, distraught, shocked as Americans were. We watched the TV screen in disbelief at first we thought it was some kind of sick movie. Katrina the same. We sat in our Living Room and shed tears as we watched the horror on our TV. We visited Boston and were so grateful for the warmth we received from Bostonians. Canadians I know don't have negative feelings regarding Americans. I'm sorry there are Americans who have not had the opportunity to know who we truly are in our hearts and minds or interested in finding out.

I'm married to a Canadian and have been in Canada a lot and I think the people in Canada are polite and friendly. My Canadian wife is loved by all the Americans she meets.
Eddie

I live in Canada and have dealt with many Americans,and from my experience a lot of Americans do not think very highly of us Canadians. I think most of it comes from lack of education to the Americans about Canada and it's people.

For the most part,Canadians respect the U.S because we have more access to the American Media,and have a more general idea of what is going on south of the border compared to what Americans have to the Canadian Media,and what goes on up here.

I absolutely love Canada! It's such a beautiful country and the people are the best! It has everything I like...hockey, skiing, breathtaking scenery and much more. I visit every chance I get. I had Thanksgiving holiday there and I enjoyed myself so much, I didn't want to come home. I'm so happy they're our neighbor.

Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

i work for a canadian owned company here in mississippi, my new boss (who is canadian) is a pleasure to work for.

No surprises here I would describe it as 'the anatomy of dependence"
No surprise here either that Obama goes to Canada for his first overseas visit I guess top of his agenda is Canada's national health system ( not all the stuff in the article) and how even Americans can get the same drugs at very significantly lower prices than you pay in the US to your medicare provider.
Do you think as bloggers/Americans that when others describe us Americans as Patriotic and opinionated at the level reported this is a problem/ something needing consideration or not?
Regards,
Hodgson.

Funny the way Canadians are all lumped into one group. Sort'a like thinking folks in Montana represent all Americans. I live in Alberta, that oil rich province mentioned in the article. Our fledgling oil industry was pretty much ignored by the banks and government back in the 40's ( when oil was discovered out here) It was US investment, and expertise and enterprize that developed our indusrty, and that strong US influence remains here in the west. If you were to assign your ' red state/ blue state' paint brush to Canada, I would guess only Alberta ( and maybe Sask) would be a 'red state' ( by the way – you have those colour codes backwards – ask any Canadain or Brit and they'll confirm this) So our view of Americans is different than those of our brothers and sister in Ontario, Quebec and the east coast. The Americans we meet are not in some amusement part or restaurant while on holidays, but they're our neighbors or co-workers. What I have learned from them is that thier view or America has changed once they were outside looking in.
Our 'pop' culture is identical- our cultures are different. You fought for your country- we stuck around when it got cold! You wrung your hands over the idea of having a female national leader, we did that 12-15 years ago ( Kim Campbell for the bonus points!!) You guys seem polarized over your politics- and so are we. You guys get emotional when your sons/daughters in the armed forces are deployed – so are we ( my son is in the air force here) You want less personal taxes- so do we. HOWEVER I do like my banks regulated, my schools properly funded, our bridges not to fall apart and universal frontline healthcare ( hair transplants and breast augmentation are not covered ( but can be bought!!) Most of my family on my mother's side live in the greater Boston area and I love to argure 'socialized healthcare' with them- I always ask them if thier socialized fire department or police or air traffic controllers or park rangers are a big problem.

Hey CNN .. I always get a good insight as to what you think of American vs Canadains during your weather updates.. on your big map of North America, you have to show where the US cities are, but have concluded that Canadains already know where we are!!

God bless america – but also bless the rest of the world
Life in general is confusing – what most people know is what they learn stemming from a long and far idiology.
No one thinks too much of America – but what one should remember is this-
it is a two dimensional universe
Life = death , Male = female
Light = Darkness ect.
There is only two ways of thinking -either or ________ _ _ FILL IT IN.
All the things we talk about dont even matter because In general term
one deminsion Equals to the other. The begining of Time is Light
So the the end of time is ? ___________ Darkness
anyways what am trying to say is this- Each and ever individual that can understant life in that manner can make a fear jugement on his own behalf
America Stand for the Best Hope of the pass
Now is the time for us to all stand for the best hope of the future and not to make unnessary remarks base on the Pass

I'm proud to be a hard working Canadian !! I don't uderstand why they refer to us a forgein country please stop that refrence besides all our jobs are going to real forgien countries like Mexico

Michelle D.
Canadain and proud of it!

Americans don't think about anyone else other than themselves - perhaps that's their biggest problem!
If they decide to take the protectionist route, we can always sell our oil and other raw materials to someone else. Since our hydro-electric power can't be sold elsewhere, we'll just have to triple our price - I don't think you can buy it anywhere else.

I am a proud Canadian. I was very happy that President Obama has decided to reinstate the presedential tradition of having his first foreign ste isit be always to Ottawa, our capital. I felt so strongly in fact about it, I even emailed President Obama during his campaign(not sure he ever received it!).
Our former Prime Minister, Pierre Trudeau, once said that we 'live in the shadow of the US elephant' . That means we share a great deal culturally, financially/economically.
Please remeber the French and British influences on our culture are very strong despite us seeing the same TV shows, being huge trading partners. We're a lot like you, but our world perspective is not as centric as yours-we look outward, you tend to expect others to look in (you're the superpower, we're a medium sized country whose big strength is peacemaking, inclusive health/human rights reforms)
But you'll never have a better, loyal friend than us-and I hope we can think of the same of you. My best to your country and your President!
Chris Holmgren
Toronto
We also have huge oil reserves now in our province of Alberta-we could work and respect each other this way with fair trade.

I have been to the US many times for St. Paddy's day in both NYC and Boston and have had the best time. I have also been to a few Sabres and Bills games in Buffalo and have never really had a negative experience. The odd time you get a dirty look from a clerk at the Walden Galleria when you ask if they accept Canadian money but hey. I get more grief from rude people in Montreal who don't like the fact that I speak English, and that is part of Canada (for now).
Sometimes it is difficult at first to distinguish between Canadians and Americans in some areas because we have similar accents. However, when Toronto hosts Caribana and the thousands of African-American visitors come up from the US you can really distinguish between the locals and the American visitors. The American visitors are so polite, friendly and genuinly happy. When I was in retail it was always a pleasure to deal with them.

I get pretty tired of articles like this, particuarly the happy-to-be-ignorant comments of some of the US readers. You don't think of anyone else but yourselves and that's the attitude that gives you The Ugly American label. Loud and obnoxious and rude.

We're hardworking, patriotic in our own way and prefer "Peace, Order and Good Government'. That is OUR motto.

We have our financial house in order and know damn well if you can't afford it you don't buy it!! This global financial mess was caused by your lax financial rules and we will all suffer because of it.

You are damn lucky you have us on your north border.

Americans interested in Canada can log on to the websites of various Canadian newspapers, which are not only informative about our nearest neighbor but about ourselves, as well – some of their takes on our policies/behaviors are really enlightening. And if youchoose Le Soleil you can brush up on your French as well. P.S. – they talk about hockey less than we talk about football. We ARE *** lucky to have them on our border, and crossing it, and letting us cross it. And they should talk more about their FOOD!

I thought the article could do a better job at profiling some of the core differences. While having a similar culture, Canada has been better governed over the last 30 years with top notch public education, universal health care (at a fraction of the cost of the American System), and a stronger free market economy (due to some limited banking controls and a public that did not engage in debt ridden gluttony). We have managed to do so while having one of the most open and free societies in the world. I have lived in both countries and I have to say, the USA has a lot to learn from Canada.

Would someone (anyone) please educate your news correspondents on "things Canadian" if they are to cover an event on Canada. I watched in disbelief this morning the coverage of the arrival of President Obama in Ottawa! Your correspondent referred to the red-coated RCMP (Mounties) members as "Canadian Armed Forces members", and then went on to discribe the official greeting of Mr. Obama by the "Prime Minister." (In fact he was met by our Governor General, Madame Michaelle Jean–our Prime Minister was waiting to welcome Mr. Obama to the House of Parliament). I know most Americans have no interest in Canada (sadly), but surely a news correspondent could be versed on us before covering a Canadian event.

I have Canadian and US citizenship. While I now live in Upstate New York, I spent most of my life living in Ontario. The comment I want to make on this subject of US / Canada likes and differences is this:

News Flash Canada- They just do not care about Canada here-period.
Canada is hardly ever mentioned in any news media. No one talks about Canada or anything Canadian. I know from all my years living in Southern Ontario that Canadians are obsessed with how they are perceived by Americans. All I can say to them is come live here and you will be blown away by the total lack of interest in anything Canadian.

I enjoy going to the United Sates whenever I can. Our two countires are very similar in so many ways. You guys get to buy your beer at 7-11 which is something we need to look at up here.

One study showed that more than 90% of Canadian live within 200 kms of the US border. We are the world’s largest trading partners. So we are closer than most people realize.

Having lived half my adult life in the US and the other half in Canada, its an easy choice when it comes to which country I prefer and proud to call home. As this discussion highlights most Americans are self centred and ignorant. I wonder why Americans have a Canadian flag on their backpacks when travelling abroad?? Enough said.

I guess I shouldn't be too surprised at the attitude of the posters on this blog – both American and Canadian. I just want to say that I also grew up just across the border and have spent a lot of time in Canada. It's a beautiful country populated by intelligent and diverse people. I miss not being able to visit more often.

I'm from the province "state" of Alberta. We are Canada's Texas and we take pride in it. We're all about big oil and guns and heavily conservative. I personally have been to the United states over 20 times to 16 U.S. states in my 19 year life span. I love America as much as I love Canada. Heck I even hang an American flag above my bed and have a 12 inch American eagle figurine in my room along with many other American memoribilia. I find us Canadians and Americans to be one in the same. The difference lies in which part of Canada you visit on whether you'll find Canadians who like America and those that do not. Eastern Canada (Minnesota eastward for you Americans) have a great distaste for Americans probably going back all the way to before the 1812 War. On the other hand come to western Canada (West of North Dakota) and I am sure you will find we Canadians love America, and speak with American accents. I have people who think I am from the US just because of the way I talk! Example: I have a Montanan accent. We Canadians and Americans are brothers and I thank you for helping us in Afghanistan in the War against Terror and supporting us through trade.

Canada isn't all that. I should know, I was raised there and now happily live in the US.
The country is boring and a lot of Canadians look down on Americans.

The US will get their "Superpower" status back soon- Americans are smart, ambitious and patriotic!

Though the article points out three key American interests in Canada it fails to encapsulate how important our relationship has been since the settling of North America, as many readers and commentators remain just as ignorant. The more we diverge, the less we learn from each other – and will only ad to problems both countries face. As much as some Americans like Cindy don't think they need Canada, it's – it's apparent, you're very much dependent on us, as we are on the US. 700 billion in trade! Hardly pocket change – Cindy appears to be from Georgia – fortunately her opinion is rare I believe. Border states, especially around the great lakes and the Northeast know the importance of being neighbours – and the mutual benefits. Cheers to 360 for shedding a little light on our often overlooked nation, and Canadians are very patriotic – and the beer far better, eh?!

By reading some of the comments, our United States friends do not understand that we do not look down on you, we just find that most of your coverage of the daily events are about killings, muggings, kidnappings, and so on. Here in Canada, yes we are worried about our little part of the world, but we do not lead off the day's news with the frightening thing we can find, usually we have more important things to think about like, employment, the environment and the rest of the world. I find it amazing that we know more about your country than most of you know. Quick question: Name the past 9 President's of the USA, and the last 9 Prime minister's of Canada? (Answer: Obama, GW Bush, Clinton, GH Bush, Reagan, Carter, Ford, Nixon, LBJ. Canada's PM's Harper, Martin, Creitian, Campbell (Female), Turner, Mulroney, Trudeau, Clark, Trudeau.)

The U.S. is a fantasy. Nothing is real. All image and no substance. A nation of fake facades and a Hollywood stage. That is really how many Canadians see your nation. It's a 'ME' Nation, Big Cars, Big Homes, Consumerism, Reality TV, spoiled celebrities, 15 Mins of Fame at any cost, a lot of pomp and a lot of bravado.

But that is how the American owned media wants to portray you, and I guess how you want the world to see you… and that is the root cause of what you don't see right next door to you… or anywhere else.

Quite a balanced report. Given the choices I think both parties are very lucky to have each other as neigbours. There is no question that Canadian values are different than American values on many issues. Without doubt the fact that North America is to some extent an island as much of the world creates their trading groups and economies. Best to keep independant and understanding relationships. The trip today by President Obama should help keep the lines of communication open. P.S.

I followed this thread with interest, being Canadian. The most telling thing about American's knowledge of Canada, is that even on News reports, our capital is referred to as "Ottawa, Canada". This is equivalent to saying something like "Los Angeles, United States". The correct way to refer to it is "Ottawa, Ontario, Canada" just as the correct way to refer to the American city is "Los Angeles, California, USA" Just an observation from a Canadian who has a great many American friends and a great deal of respect for the USA as a country. On the whole they have been great neighbours, and good friends.

I am an American-born Canadian who has been living in Canada for years. I have never appreciated the differences between the two countries more than now. I agree with Bob that my country of origin could learn much from Canada if there was the will to do so, which sadly there isn't. If you really want a sense of cultural differences monitor the websites of CBC and CTV, BBC and CNN frequently on any given day.

I live in Windsor, Ontario a border city to Detroit, MI. I will tell you one thing...when you cross that border its like night and day...from city landscapes to homeless people. Im not disrespecting just stating th obvious.

Let's face it, Canada is certainly not in the mess the U.S. has gotten itself into. It looks like our relationship is more akin to the tortoise and hare, with the hare getting bailed out without end because it tired itself out before the end of the race. Our government tried to throw money at our banks, but no one wanted it.

Let's face it, the only thing we, in Montreal, care about is Times Square, Hollywood Boulevard, Miami Beach and whichever city the Canadiens are playing in that evening. As for the rest, we have a very similar attitude as Americans have toward us, sorry to break it to you, Uncle Sam.

It's always amusing to see these exchanges between Canadians and Americans. Puzzled Americans trying to figure out their sometimes obsequious, sometimes prickly and always slightly narcissistic neighbours (Hey! What about us?). It's a far more complex relationship for Canadians than most people realize. We are all but fully integrated into your economy, steeped in your culture and, largely, aligned with your world view. But we aren't America North.

The differences are not trivial. Our economy is trade driven, not consumer driven. When the U.S. or Chinese economies sneeze, we catch a cold. In boom times, our streets don't suddenly get clogged with 2.5 tonne SUV's. On the other hand, guess which major industrialized country is the only one that didn't have to bail out any banks in this crisis? Yup, good old, boring Canada. Grasshopper, meet the ant.

We're just as swamped and intrigued with Brangelina, just as appalled but fascinated by Britney and just as thrilled by Obama. We're glad you took Celine Dion, Nickelback and Jim Carey off our hands and we're willing to share Neil Young, the Arcade Fire and Mike Meyers. But you can't have Ron James or the Tragically Hip. Sorry, you just wouldn't understand.

My old man was wounded in Normandy (1939-1945, not 1941-1945, BTW) and his old man was wounded at Vimy Ridge (the Great War, not WWI, BTW). Proud to have fought by your side and that of dear old England. We never bought into Iraq or Vietnam, but most of us our proud to bursting AND sad beyond words at the courage and cost our young people have invested into Afghanistan, by your side. We've always looked at the world in much the same way, just from slightly different perspectives.

We couldn't ask for a better neighbour or a more generous one. We're not your little brothers. We're your quiet, proud, slightly eccentric cousins.

I think it's working just fine.

When is this debate going to end?

I'm not one to think highly of American's who view Canada as "boring", "uninteresting" or the like.

The reality is we share cultural similarities, beliefs and geography. In this age of American protectionalism it would seem beneficial for both nations to strengthen economic ties through energy, manufacturing and agriculture.

In the end, the socio-economic benefits of a healthy relationship between the two nations is essential to each our prosperity.

Dave – Calgary

I lived in the US for some time and many of my closest friends are Americans. My friends are from the Northwest and over the years we came to realise that we shared more in common regarding our personal values than we did with our fellow citizens from the far flung parts of our respective countries.

There is shared blood between us: US and Canadian troops served side by side in the 1st Special Service Force during WW2; Canadian troops protected the retreating US and South Korean forces at Kapyong; US soldiers liberated Canadian POWs in Japan. Civil aid has been important too: when the Halifax Explosion took place aid and support from the US was vital to helping rebuild the city; when Katrina took place Canadian rescue teams were made available to assist US assets and when the FAA grounded air traffic on 9/11 Canadian airports absorbed the bulks of the traffic.

There is a lot of ignorance on both sides of the border. Unfortunately ignorance is part of the human condition. The chattering of those dismissive of either country is simply an indication of their own limited understanding of the world. When all one does is absorb TV and consume it is easy to believe your country exists in a vacuum.

It is ridiculous that this article had to be written at all. Americans should know these things about us already. Just because we are not a flashy country doesn't mean US media shouldn't be talking about us and the integral relationship our two countries have with one another.

That said, THANK-YOU for writing it as it IS needed. I am proud to be Canadian and I am excited that you now have Obama. I look forward to being shown a bit more respect for the role we play in your lives as we respect and often look up to Americans.

We are very different in sometimes subtle ways. We are a sovereign nation with a unique history that diverged from yours not so long ago. Lets celebrate our differences as we work together. But lets actually work together and see the relationship spoken about in the media.

AND bring Omar Khadar home Harper. He was a child solider and should be rehabilitated as such by the country he called home.

Growing up in Windsor, we are often considered Amercianized. Our news often comes from our local Detroit stations (especially our weather which Windsorites often know ferenheit before celcius), our commercials are often for stores that don't even operate in Canada, and there is a huge divide amongst hockey fans to cheer for the Red wings or the Maple Leafs. However I see much more in the cross border expirience that I have been given. I have had the privledge of learning not only the way Canadian politics, attitudes and beliefs are shaped but I have had the wonderful expirience of seeing the American point of view as well. Unfortunately I believe that there are quite a few Amercians that have not had the chance to see anything from a Canadian prospective even those who live close to the border. Its a little disappointing when someone who lives 20 minutes away asks if we live in igloo's, or how our weather is today. These may be extreme cases but I believe that this is the reason some Canadians feel that American's often care nothing about Canada. At the end of the day, the bond between Canadians and Americans will surely remain strong for years to come, it may benefit by both sides seeing a little more of what the other has to offer.

The Canadian/US relationship has and always will be vital. Whether or not the citizens realize it. WW1,WW2,Korea,Gulf War1,Afghanistan – just about every major conflict – we have fought along side our cousins. (Except for Vietnam and Iraq – 2 engagements that we have veto'd for obvious reasons). We wept on Sept 11th, not only for the American lives lost, but also for the Canadians that died. And, we were so proud when Canadian Airports opened their runways for thousands of American flights that were not permitted to land in their own country. Canadians opened their homes to total strangers, gave them food, clothing and prayers.
We are proud to be part of NASA's programs. We are giving the American Auto companies billions of dollars to show our support for Obama's plans. My roots are from Southern Ontario (Just south of Detroit), we are very like-minded to American lifestyles and culture there. Sure we're proud to be Canadian. But I'd also live in the US in a heartbeat. All statistics aside, we are truly 2 of the most blessed nations on this planet. We'll get through this economic crisis together.

I am a Canadian living in the Southern US; I have an American wife and two American kids. People frequently ask me why I have never become a naturalized US citizen even though I have been eligible for years. The answer seems obvious to me: I am Canadian. I am proud of where I am from and who I am.

Having said that, there are great differences between the cultures, but a suprising similarity in a peculiar ignorance and sense of superiority. Many of my Canadian friends stereotype all Americans as stupid and ignorant. And many of my American friends stereotype Canadians as some kind of gay lumberjacks. Simply stated: ignorant people are ignorant.

The fact is that Canadians know much more about America because we are raised on their news/television/movies/music/sports, etc. Unless you live in Upstate New York or some other border area, American get no Canadian content whatsoever. Other than Degrassi Junior High or the Trailer Park Boys, Americans know nothing about Canadian pop culture beyond Brian Adams, Celine Dion and Nickleback. That is not exactly anyone's fault though is it? If you live where I live, the only thing you ever hear about Canada is that there is some oil in some tar pits up there or something.

So, to sum it all up, Americans need to know that Canadians are a proud, peace loving people who respect themselves, their environment, and the people with whom they share the world. And Canadians need to know that Americans are idealistic because of the principles on which their country was founded, proud of the traditions and culture that they give to the world – acknowleging their influence upon it – and basically just trying to make their way in the world. Just like everybody else.

As a union firefighter it goes without saying that I/we are interested in what happens to GM. Most everyone agrees that we have to save this industry as its about the only thing we manufacture anymore. My question is; what plant closings and layoffs are projected for Mexico and other foreign lands? I just read that there are 12 domestic plant closings planned by 20012, five more than originally projected. The american people are not going to be happy to learn that we lost jobs that are major contributors to our own economy while those in other countries remained intact. Can anyone shed some light on and/or broaden this topic arena? Thanks.

I suppose there are quite a few that may have had a crash course on Canada with this visit by the President.
I noticed that your network is not exactly showing every move he makes TODAY,but just snippets of him here and there.

Yet, you seem quite fond of showing just about every OTHER move he makes,no matter how minor.

As for the title of this post,I find it very condecending in its attitude.
If you were going to drag this out again today,at least pick a better title,or better yet,do not drag it out at all.

Was there NO OTHER title that could have been used,that did not seem so uninformed,to the point of arrogance,
and,as many previous posts here have said,ignorant?

Or,perhaps you should follow the saying, "if you don't have anything good to say,don't say anything at all."!

Oh,and it is Ottawa,Ontario,Canada,by the way,and a LOT of us do not go around saying EH all the time,either.
Neither are we boring,or do many of us find the US very interesting,either.

If you DO decide to post my comment,please do me the courtesy of NOT censoring it by removing my orginal words,like you did on my previous post with this story .
You removed MINE,but yet left it alone in others??
There were/are far worse ones here than what I ORIGINALLY said,that ONE word, which is used here by others:ignorant.

I am a duel citizen, born in the US but grew up in Canada. I have to admit throughout my life here in Canada I rarely admitted I was an American. The attitudes I have experienced about Americans have been mostly negative. Arrogant, racist, self absorbed, and obsessed with the all mighty dollar seemed to be the general feelings.

I am happy to say this has all seemed to change on a dime with the election of Obama. Thank you America! I am FINALLY proud to be an American.

Things I would like Americans to know about Canada? We are not ALL nice people. Friendly might be a more accurate term. We don't ALL say Eh after every sentence and we don't live in igloo's.

The big difference I see between Canadians and Americans? We don't sue our neighbours. We just simply say "I'm Sorry". AND we don't have to worry about losing our home because our children get sick. Living in Canada makes life a little less stressful. Don't cha think?

Wow! How hostile.

I logged onto AC360 after watching the CBC coverage of President Obama's arrival here in Canada. I was pumped watching it! Excited for our country that he is here & what it means to me.
But wow – I wasn't expecting such hostility on this blog! Why?
You all sound like kids in a sand box arguing about whose castle is bigger and better!

I'm Canadian, grew up in a border city only to marry and move to another border city. I have "American" friends, my brother lives in St. Louis, I've dated "American" men.
We are two different countries with a lot of different views on a lot of different topics – the thing about Canada is that we get the majority of the media coverage from the US so yes – we likely are more informed about what is happening there.
Hey – if CNN was based in Toronto – America would know more about what happens in Canada.

But hey, I'm getting off topic here. I'm happy for the US that Barack Obama was voted President. He seems like a great man – I'm actually a bit jealous to be honest. I'd like it if he secretly had a twin that was born in Canada and could run for PM.

Bottom line is Canada & the US are neighbours – we should get along. We haven't been getting along since Bush had a hissy fit when we wouldn't go to war in Iraq. We were already in Afghanistan helping him look for Bin Laden.

I'm hoping that President Obama will help mend the broken white-picket-fence between our two countries.

As a 4th generation Canadian, I think this article should be emailed to every American in light of President Obama's visit to my country. It was nice to see an article which truly reflects much of what is Canada.

It's amazing that the only way Canada ever makes the American news is if something blows up here or the US President graces us with his presence. But really that's ok, we prefer to be the quiet intellectual type anyway.

Sadly, I belive that the sentiment reflected by one or two Americans below, most Americans know nothing about Canada. Don't forget, Canada is America's number one supplier of oil and comedians!

Ok, now where's my hockey stick? I have a game in an hour!

To the people on both sides of the border saying ignorant and negative things about the other give your heads a shake. When push comes to shove Canadians and Amerericans stand shoulder to shoulder unlike any other 2 countries in the world. That's because we share a heritage and a history. We're cousins. We have grandparents who came to our country from the other. We have brothers and sisters who've left our country for the other. We all have relatives,friends, or coworkers from the other country.

I'm grateful for having such a great neighbour (even if they spell neighbour wrong :p ) to the south. And every American I've met is grateful for having such a great neighbour to the north.

I've travelled all over the USA and met nothing but wonderful people (even the New Yorkers :p ). When I meet people who don't know anything about Canada they are always keen to ask questions and learn.

If you find Americans to be "ignorant" of Canada it's not their fault as individuals that their media just ignores us. And if you find Canadians feel "snobbish" towards Americans it's not their fault as individual that our media loves to broadcast anti-American pablum.

Tina, please keep calling yourself a Canadian. If you are only now proud of your birth country, we don't need you.

Polite doesn't mean bland, but frankly, lots of Canadians don't care that most of our neighbours to the south don't know much about us.

But, while geographically Canada is second in size only to Russia, we have one tenth of the population of the United States. One of the important facts that should be known isn't just the number of Canadians serving as part of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, but the percentage of our military force that this mission entales, and the percentages when compared to the other NATO forces. And our military, like our banking system, may be small, but is one of the best in the world. It was German soldiers that coined the term "storm troopers" to describe Canadian forces in World War I.

Today I am especially proud at the welcome President Obama received in Ottawa. Like Canada itself, Prime Minister Harper may look middle of the road, but the American press interest over the past few days has, hopefully, shown the American people that we live by the motto of "True North Strong and Free."

"Cindy February 3rd, 2009 9:42 pm ET

@ Those that want to bad mouth people…..I’ve been to Canada several times so calling someone ignorant just looks bad on you. I have nothing against Canada but was speaking as a whole of the U.S. Most people don’t care what is going on in the next state over much less the next country. Take a chill pill!

Cindy…Ga."

Who annointed YOU as the one to speak for all? Free health care!! Free health care!! Free health care!! FREE health care!!

I think we could learn some things from Canada's culture.
As an American, it appears that many Americans are self absorbed and don't care what goes on beyond their state much less another country.

The bottom line is that Canada is more SOCIALIST RIGHT NOW than anything any AMERICAN Republican neo-con IDIOT can claim President Obama to be and Canada seems to be doing quite well thank you .

commenting on the housing article from wed evening regarding loan modifications .I personally run a large mod company based out of baltimore md in which we do in fact charge a fee up front help borrowers. we do roughly 200 per month with fantastic results so i truly resent the comment to beware of companies that take money up front. one bad apple does not have to ruin the whole bunch!!! we do great honest business with a ton of testimonials to back it up.

I'm a baby boomer and I have never read any book in elementary , high school or college on Canada. And none of my Twenty plus age group children have either.
Canada and the UK are not recognized in our schools.

But we do know Canada is north of us. The End.

I am a bit upset, I hope this email will reach you and possibly change this problem. I went into marone chevrolet today in fort lauderdale florida to buy a new camaro curently I own a BMW 328i before this car I have now I only bought gm vehicles I switched because of the gas milege there cars get so to make a long story short, I gave them a chance to get me back and buy american made again well imposible there charging the DEALERSHIP 10,000.00 over sticker went to another gm store 15,000.00 over sticker a car that cost 36k now cost 46k to 51k
guess what gm will never recover if this is done in other states because people are not stupid I told them that with the addional cost the car wont be worth what i'm paying also i could go buy the M3 for a little more and have a better crafted vehicle I would bet that everyone encounters this problem and therefore walks away from there and goes to another car company I don't expect nothing for FREE but I wont get screwed either hope this gets to you because i know you can change this from hapening to other people

Chris Scaccia

First off, I am intregued by this article, as I'm surprized that this has taken on a life of its own. I am Canadian and proud of it. I have my flag tattooed on me as a reminder of my patriotism. However, as much as I have concerns about the USA, I have plenty of friends south of the border who've shown absolutely none of that Americana that I have witnessed personally on other occasions.

America is a beautiful country. For the first time in my life, last summer I travelled to the Eastern USA. I flew from Seattle to Houston to Pittsburgh. I met nothing but helpful and kind people along the way. It made my mini vacation a thrill. However, I'm going to try and put into perspective what upsets us Canadians a little bit. We love America, but it's the ignorance we are shown that is frustrating.

A few examples:
1992 World Series when the US Marine Corp. flew our flag upside down while in colour guard.
After 9/11, when GWB (nuff said), gave his speech to your congress I believe, and when mentioning allies, failed to mention Canada and the fact that many of your citizens were sitting in our homes waiting to go home.
During televised sporting events, like the MLB All-Star game, your networks ALWAYS cut to a commercial for the Canadian National Anthem, which is really a pet peeve of mine because it shows no respect.
NBC will not show a Canadian team on its hockey coverage.
Garry Bettman. If you don't know who he is, you're not missing much.
The typical question, "Do you know Ted or Jen in Toronto?".

A great spoof movie, if you ever get a chance to rent it, is Michael Moore's Canadian Bacon. Watch it sometime, as he makes a good movie over Canada-USA relations. Now my examples above are just sentiment. I love the USA, and much of what has become of it.

Canada is were I love to live and am proud to be from. But we have our own issues here. Every tree hugger in the world feels the need to protest the Olympics. We have a gang war going on in my area where innocent people are being shot and killed. Canadian parents allowing their sons to be victimized by playing soccer. Light beer. Yes we have our problems here.

My concerns for the USA though. It's time to move into the 21st century on a couple of issues. Get some standardized healthcare for your people, especially those who need it. Learn Canada's provinces, so that way we don't have to hear an announcement of "Vancouver, Canada" when it should be "Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada". And for god's sake, do something about your gun laws. It's rediculous that I was able to read today that a 10-month baby boy is a registered owner of a firearm. The slogan may be that guns don't kill, people do, but putting guns out there as a right, is antiquated. Less guns = less violence. Proven fact people.

Long Live Canada
God Bless the USA

We need each other to survive, except in Gary Bettman's hockey world.