CBC/Radio-Canada Milestones

2000s | 1990s | 1980s | 1970s | 1960s | 1950s | 1940s | 1901-1939             

1959

• The microwave network is extended to Newfoundland.
• Special programs include the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

1958

• New Broadcasting Act establishes the Board of Broadcast Governors (BBG) to regulate all Canadian broadcasting.
• First coast-to-coast live TV broadcast with completion of the microwave network from Nova Scotia to British Columbia.
• Opening of Calgary delay centre for western time zones.
• CBC Northern Service (radio) is established.

1957

• The Fowler Commission on Broadcasting recommends transferring regulatory authority from CBC to a separate body.
• Major political coverage includes the five-hour federal election telecast and the first opening of Parliament by a reigning monarch.

1955

• First telecast of the opening of Parliament.
• CBC Television is available to 66% of the population.

1956

• Special coverage includes the Hungarian uprising, the Suez Crisis, and the Springhill mine disaster.

1953

• Opening of CKSO-TV in Sudbury, first private television station in Canada and first CBC TV affiliate.
• CBFT Montreal begins full French service with opening of English station CBMT.
• CBC is host broadcaster for the Commonwealth Games in Vancouver.

1952

• Opening of Canadian TV service (CBC): CBFT Montreal (bilingual) Sept. 6, CBLT Toronto (English) Sept. 8.
• CBC supplies radio programs to Canadian troops in Korea.
• First Canadian urban cable TV is launched in London, Ontario.

1951

• Massey Commission endorses regulatory role of CBC.
• Special coverage of the four-week visit of Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh.

1950

• First issue of the program guide La Semaine à Radio-Canada.
• Special coverage of the Manitoba floods.