Fareed Zakaria’s The Age of Revolutions offers a sweeping historical analysis of how industrialization, nationalism, and globalization have shaped modern economies and political systems. While the book primarily examines the past, starting in the Netherlands in the 16th century, then going through revolution in England, France and the USA, its themes resonate strongly with today’s geopolitical landscape—especially in the context of growing friction between Canada and the United States. The history Zakaria lays out provides valuable insight into the underlying causes of these tensions and the broader implications for both countries.
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A History of Economic Protectionism and Industrial Rivalry
One of Zakaria’s key arguments is that America’s economic rise was initially built on a foundation of industrial espionage, protectionism, and aggressive infrastructure investment. He notes that the United States borrowed heavily from British innovations—often illicitly—while shielding its emerging industries with high tariffs.
Canada, like Britain before it, now finds itself at odds with a protectionist America. Recent trade disputes, ranging from energy tariffs to tensions over steel and aluminum, mirror the historical patterns of economic nationalism Zakaria describes. In recent years, the US has increasingly leaned into policies that favour domestic production at the expense of traditional trading partners. In this sense, The Age of Revolutions serves as a reminder that economic nationalism is not new—it is an intrinsic part of America’s historical DNA.
Nationalism as a Tool of Political Distraction
Zakaria argues that conservative nationalist movements in the 19th century used protectionism and xenophobia as tools to deflect internal unrest. He writes: “The winners of this struggle tended to be the conservative nationalists who often addressed domestic unrest by unifying or distracting people with nationalism and imperialism.” This observation is strikingly relevant today.
As Canada and the US navigate disputes over trade, border policies, and energy projects, there is a temptation—on both sides—to frame these conflicts in nationalist terms. American populists argue that Canadian trade and taxation practices undercut US workers, while Canadian politicians respond by emphasizing national sovereignty and economic independence. Zakaria’s analysis suggests that these tensions are not solely about economics; they are also about domestic political calculations. Leaders may find it easier to blame foreign actors than to address systemic economic challenges at home.
The Shift Away from Free Trade
Another major theme in The Age of Revolutions is the historical ebb and flow of free trade. Zakaria notes that the late 19th century saw a sharp turn toward protectionism across industrialized nations, driven by fears of economic instability and foreign competition. He points out that “beginning around the 1890s, industrialized nations moved away from free markets and free trade”.
This shift bears a striking resemblance to the post-2016 trade environment, where the US has retreated from multilateral agreements and imposed tariffs on key imports. Canada, a strong proponent of open markets, has found itself repeatedly in the crossfire. Whether it was the renegotiation of NAFTA into the USMCA, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), or recent restrictions on Canadian steel and aluminum, the US has embraced a zero-sum approach to trade that mirrors the 19th-century patterns Zakaria describes.
Lessons for Canada: Navigating an Uncertain Future
Zakaria’s historical analysis underscores that economic and political trends are cyclical. Just as nations in the past turned to protectionism before eventually recognizing its limitations, today’s retreat from globalization is unlikely to be permanent. However, Canada must be strategic in navigating this period of heightened economic nationalism.
· Diversification of Trade Partnerships: As Zakaria highlights, the failure of economic sanctions on Russia since it invaded Ukraine demonstrates that the global economy is vast and adaptable. Canada should deepen its trade relationships with Europe, Asia, and Latin America to reduce dependence on the US.
· Investment in Domestic Innovation: The US once used intellectual property theft and industrial policy to fuel its rise. Canada should take a proactive approach by investing in domestic industries, particularly in green technology and advanced manufacturing, to improve productivity and to ensure economic resilience.
· Maintaining Diplomatic and Economic Leverage: Zakaria’s work illustrates how economic power translates into political leverage. Canada should continue to assert its influence within global institutions, ensuring that it remains a key player in shaping international trade rules rather than merely reacting to American policy shifts.
· Leveraging Energy and Natural Resources: Canada possesses an abundance of energy resources, including oil, natural gas, and renewable electricity, as well as critical minerals essential for modern industries. By strategically developing these resources, Canada can strengthen its economic position, attract investment, and ensure energy security while contributing to global sustainability goals.
Conclusion: A Historical Perspective on Modern Challenges
Zakaria’s The Age of Revolutions provides a compelling historical lens through which to view the current Canada-US relationship. The protectionist policies, nationalist rhetoric, and economic tensions we see today are not anomalies—they are echoes of past conflicts. Recognizing these patterns can help Canada craft a forward-thinking strategy that balances economic integration with national resilience.
While history does not repeat itself exactly, its rhythms remain familiar. As Canada and the US navigate their economic relationship, the lessons of past revolutions remind us that no period of tension is permanent. Strategic adaptation, rather than reactionary nationalism, will be the key to Canada’s continued prosperity.
