The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 sent shock waves around the world. The unilateral decision to invade Iraq an overthrow its government was opposed by many nations and citizens. Prior to the invasion, tens of millions of people around the glob marched with one voice demanding peace and calling for restraint in the face of the looming threats of war. This outpouring of global protest was an unprecedented expression of popular sentiment that challenged self-serving political and corporate interests. Recognising this open opposition from governments and the public, Canada refused to join the invasion even though it was a long-time ally of the United States and enjoyed a beneficial relationship with the superpower. The influential contributors to Canada and the New American Empire discuss the ramifications of this decision to Canada-US Relations form the standpoint of multilateralism and national sovereignty.

This is the first major collection of essays on Canada's role in opposing the war. It documents and analyses how Canada and Canadians furthered peace and democracy at a crucial time in the nation's history.