The Copyright Question: A Letter to the Toronto Board of Trade

"The Copyright Question: A Letter to the Toronto Board of Trade" by George N. (George Nathaniel) Morang is a compelling examination of copyright laws affecting Canadian authors and publishers in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The document explores the intricacies of copyright legislation and its effects on Canada's publishing world, focusing especially on the link between Canadian and British policies. Morang contends against a resolution proposed by the Toronto Board of Trade that aims to restrict Canadian copyright acquisition, arguing that current British laws already grant Canadian authors the same rights and protections as their British peers. He highlights the history of copyright law, tracing its development from 1847 through various bills and international agreements that defend Canadian authors' rights. Morang cautions that adopting localized copyright laws could endanger those rights, potentially exposing Canadian authors to vulnerability and exploitation, ultimately championing for beneficial international regulations.