America and Americans

[Fraser Sutherland]

A  couple of supplementary points from a Canadian (Nova  Scotia-raised,
living in Toronto).

1. Further to Smith, Murphy, and Faber: Canadians' self-description as
"Americans"  is indeed something of an historical relic, e.g., the late
Canadian novelist Morley Callaghan always described himself as an "American
writer."  I doubt if Canadians will revert to it, though it's possible in
the wake of Sept. 11, and talk of "Fortress North  America."

2.  British typically lump Canada and the United States together when they
speak of "America" and "Americans."  They're probably using verbal
shorthand for "North   America",  or perhaps the land-mass just  blurs in
their minds.