Canadian History, Defining Modern Canada (1982-Present) By jawong Jun 9, 1867 British North America Act Jan 1, 1880 Residential Schools Began Jan 1, 1933 Jean Critien Elected Prime Minister Jun 25, 1968 Pierre Trudeau wins majority government Jun 8, 1980 Quebec Referenda (1980 & 1995) Apr 17, 1982 Canada gets new constitution & Chater of Rights and Freedoms Jan 1, 1984 Brian Mulroney Elected Prime Minister Jan 1, 1989 NAFTA Free trade agreement between Canada and the US came into affect. Jan 1, 1990 Meech Lake Accord