For decades, the relationship between Canadians and Americans was defined by proximity, economic interdependence and a shared sense of partnership.

Millions of jobs in both countries depended on bilateral trade, and the two countries have supported each other as key allies and defence partners. Despite occasional disagreements, the relationship was treated as a stable feature of North American life.

Since Donald Trump returned to office as president of the United States in January 2025, that assumption has changed. Trade disputes and escalating political tensions have transformed how many Canadians view their southern neighbour.

Today, 48 per cent of Canadians have an unfavourable view of Americans, with many saying that Canada should approach the U.S. with caution (29 per cent), as a potential threat (36 per cent) or as an enemy (six per cent).

How did a relationship built on decades of partnership reach this point, and where does it go from here?

The 10-reason cycle of hate, developed by our team of researchers at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research BMB Program, helps explain why hostility toward Americans flared so quickly in Canada, and why it has the potential to become long lasting.

Hate is not simply a spontaneous emotion that emerges within individuals. It develops through a combination of social, political and historical conditions. These conditions can be created, fuelled and mobilized by people and institutions.

The cycle has four interconnected components: the current context, a call to arms, justification and history. Once the cycle of hate is initiated, the........

© The Conversation