What was the outcome of the 1948 referendums in Newfoundland?

• A. 60% voted to remain independent
• B. 49.2% voted to join Canada
• C. 52.3% voted to join Canada
• D. 70% abstained from voting

Answer: (C)

Newfoundland faced a foundational decision about its future after World War II, so voters were asked in two referendums about how the colony should be governed. The first vote offered three paths: keep responsible government as a self-governing dominion, return to a British colonial administration (Commission of Government), or join Canada. No option won a clear majority, so a second referendum was held between the two leading paths: keeping responsible government or joining Canada. In that second vote, joining Canada narrowly won with 52.3% of the vote, while keeping responsible government received 47.7%. This result led to Newfoundland becoming a Canadian province in 1949.