Canada's 1961 National Oil Policy: A Divided Energy Strategy

The National Oil Policy of 1961 was a compromise that aimed to boost economic growth in Canada by catering to different regions' energy needs. Historian and energy analyst Tammy Nemeth explains this policy in her series, 3 Minute History Canada. The policy divided the country's energy distribution, providing Alberta crude for the Western provinces while allowing cheaper imports for the Eastern ones.

This division had a significant impact on Canada's economy. By boosting growth, it helped the country become more prosperous, but also left it vulnerable to external shocks. When the 1973 crisis hit, Canada struggled due to its reliance on imported oil.

Nemeth's series provides an in-depth look at the human side of this energy policy through storytelling and rare visuals. The episode on the National Oil Policy is now available for viewing on YouTube, along with other episodes covering various aspects of Canada's energy history.