The Beaver & the Bald Eagle

The Beaver and the Bald Eagle explores the growing divide between Canada and the United States—two nations that appear similar on the surface but are increasingly shaped by different values, institutions, and social contracts. Drawing on the author’s life on both sides of the border, a 25-year career with the United Nations, and original survey data, the book blends personal narrative with sharp comparative analysis.

“Rogers draws on journalistic observations, insights from comparative politics and sociology, and an original survey to examine differences and similarities between the US and Canada across a variety of areas, including governance, immigration, healthcare, sports, education, business, and the environment. Beyond an astute comparison, the book is also a deep reflection on how institutions, values, myths, and policies make a national culture, community, and ultimately a country.”
— Daniel Naujoks, School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University

“An engaging exploration of democracy, identity, and institutional design, told through the lens of two closely linked countries. Its lessons extend well beyond North America.”
— Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand

“Why and how are the USA and Canada such different places? Part memoir, part study in comparative politics, this book describes how institutions both shape and reflect very different underlying, deep cultural currents in the two countries. A compelling and insightful read.”
—Matthew Mulford, London School of Economics and Political Science

“Rogers provides the analytical frame I’ve been searching for, turning everyday observations into clear, compelling insights about two nations I deeply admire.”
— Thomas Barker, University of Alberta

“The Beaver and the Bald Eagle is a timely way to explore and better understand both countries, told in a style and with a touch that only Adam Rogers could provide.”
— Chris Fiscus, Arizona State University