How did the Confederation affect provincial powers?

The Confederation established a federal system in Canada, which means that powers were divided between the federal government and the provinces. This structure was designed to balance the need for a strong central authority while allowing provinces to maintain some degree of control over local matters.

This division of powers is foundational to Canada's governance, as it outlines the responsibilities and jurisdictions of both levels of government. The federal government handles nationwide issues such as defense and immigration, while provinces manage local concerns like education and health care. This arrangement allows for a degree of regional autonomy within the framework of a unified country, recognizing the diverse needs of different provinces.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcome of the Confederation. The claim that all powers were centralized to the federal government disregards the explicit intention behind Confederation, which aimed to allow for provincial governance alongside federal oversight. The idea that provincial governments were eliminated is also incorrect, as the Confederation was specifically designed to preserve and institutionalize provincial rights and responsibilities. Lastly, suggesting that provinces were given full autonomy overlooks the necessity for a cohesive national policy, which requires some federal oversight and collaboration.

Thus, the correct answer signifies the dual nature of governance established by Confederation, where both levels play significant roles while maintaining clear boundaries of authority