A People’s History of the Hoser, Canada’s Blue-Collar Icon
From Bob and Doug McKenzie to the Trailer Park Boys, the Canadian hoser is an integral part of the country’s cultural landscape. The hoser is also a working-class emblem, whose uncertain fortune in the face of economic downturns reflects the wider experience of Canadian workers.
The term hoser was first introduced by the sketch-comedy show SCTV and its characters Bob and Doug McKenzie (Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas).
Northrop Frye once defined a Canadian as “an American who rejects the revolution.” America’s revolutionary war famously birthed the Declaration of Independence, with its demand for “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Canada settled for the decidedly meeker “peace, order and good government,” contained in section 91 of the British North America Act.
Canadians remained British subjects until 1947. The country lacked its own flag until 1967. It was only in 1982 that Canada gained the right to amend its constitution without approval from Britain.
There are two attributes to note about the character of the “hoser,” who inhabits some of the most popular television shows, films, and songs to emerge from this country. Firstly, the hoser is, above all, a non-American. Secondly, regardless of geography, time period, and exact living circumstances, the hoser demonstrates a rugged and spirited commitment to the status quo.
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