Canada

Canada is a country in North America. Its ten provinces and three territories extend from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward into the Arctic Ocean, making it the second-largest country by total area, with the longest coastline of any country. Its border with the United States is the longest international land border. With a population of over 41 million, it has widely varying population densities, with the majority residing in its urban areas.

Indigenous peoples have continuously inhabited what is now Canada for thousands of years. Beginning in the 16th century, British and French expeditions explored and later settled along the Atlantic coast. In 1867, with the union of three British North American colonies through Confederation, Canada was formed as a federal dominion of four provinces.

Canada is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. It is very highly ranked in international measurements of quality of life, economic competitiveness, and human rights. As a developed country, Canada has a high nominal per capita income globally and its advanced economy ranks among the largest in the world by nominal GDP.

Etymology

Main article: Name of Canada

The name Canada comes from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word kanata, meaning 'village' or 'settlement'. In 1535, Indigenous people used this word to guide French explorer Jacques Cartier to a village near what is now Quebec City. Over time, the name Canada grew to refer to a larger area.

In the 1800s, Canada became the official name of a new country formed from several British colonies. Today, we celebrate this history each year on Canada Day.

History

Main article: History of Canada

Further information: Timeline of Canadian history and Historiography of Canada

The first people in Canada were Indigenous groups who arrived thousands of years ago from Siberia through a land bridge called Beringia. They developed rich cultures with permanent settlements, farming, and trade networks. When Europeans arrived, these groups included the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.

European exploration of Canada began with Norse sailors around the year 1000 AD, but permanent settlements started in the early 1600s. French and English explorers claimed land along the Atlantic coast and the Saint Lawrence River. Over time, France and Britain competed for control, leading to wars that eventually placed Canada under British rule.

In 1867, several British colonies joined together to form Canada. Over the years, more lands were added, and Canada grew into the large country it is today. Through wars, economic changes, and social developments, Canada has evolved into an independent nation with a diverse population and a strong sense of identity.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Canada

Canada is the second-largest country in the world by total area, including its waters. It stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east, along the Arctic Ocean to the north, and to the Pacific Ocean in the west. Canada shares the world's largest land border with the United States and has the world's longest coastline. The country has many lakes and rivers, with vast forests and varied landscapes.

Main articles: Temperature in Canada and Climate change in Canada

Canada's climate varies widely. Winters can be very cold, especially in the interior and Prairie regions, while coastal areas like British Columbia have milder winters. Northern Canada has icy, cold conditions year-round. Climate change is affecting the country, especially in the north.

Main article: Wildlife of Canada

Canada is home to many different plants and animals. Over half of its land is still wild and unchanged. The country has many conservation areas to protect its natural spaces and wildlife.

Government and politics

Main articles: Government of Canada and Politics of Canada

Canada is described as a "full democracy", with traditions of liberalism and egalitarian values. Since the 1960s, social justice has been an important part of Canada's political culture. The country follows the principles of peace, order, and good government and has an Implied Bill of Rights.

At the federal level, Canada is led by two main centrist parties: the Liberal Party of Canada and the Conservative Party of Canada. The Liberal Party usually sits in the middle of the political spectrum. In the 2025 election, five parties had representatives in Parliament—the Liberals, the Conservatives, the Bloc Québécois, the New Democratic Party, and the Green Party.

Canada has a parliamentary system within a constitutional monarchy. The monarchy of Canada is the foundation of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The monarch appoints a representative called the governor general, who carries out most ceremonial duties.

The Parliament of Canada passes federal laws and includes the monarch, the House of Commons, and the Senate. Members of the House of Commons are elected by voters in different areas called ridings. The Senate has 105 members who serve until they are 75 years old.

Main article: Law of Canada

The Constitution of Canada is the highest law of the land. It includes the Constitution Act, 1867, which set up Canada's government, and the Constitution Act, 1982, which added the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This Charter protects basic rights and freedoms for all Canadians.

Main article: Provinces and territories of Canada

See also: Canadian federalism

Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories. Provinces and territories handle many local services such as healthcare, education, and social programs. While provinces collect more money, the federal government helps poorer provinces to keep services fair for everyone.

Main article: Foreign relations of Canada

Canada is known as a middle power in world affairs. It works closely with other countries to promote peace and provide aid. Canada has strong ties with the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. It is a member of many international groups, including the United Nations and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Main articles: Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian peacekeeping

Further information: Military history of Canada

Canada has a professional military made up of the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, and Royal Canadian Air Force. Canada has taken part in many peacekeeping missions around the world, which has helped shape its positive image globally. In 2026, Canada met a goal to spend 2% of its economy on defense.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Canada

Canada has a strong and developed economy. It is one of the largest economies in the world, ranking ninth by the value of all its goods and services. Canada is also a major trading nation, with much of its trade happening with the United States. The country’s economy includes many different industries, such as manufacturing, mining, and services.

Canada is known for its natural resources, like oil, natural gas, and minerals, and it is a big producer of agricultural products such as wheat and canola. The service industry employs most people in Canada. The country also has an important science and technology sector, with achievements in medicine, space exploration, and many other areas.

Demographics

Main articles: Demographics of Canada, List of cities in Canada, and List of census metropolitan areas and agglomerations in Canada

Canada's population has grown quickly, reaching over 36 million in 2021 and continuing to rise. Most of this growth comes from people moving to Canada from other countries. Many new Canadians settle in big cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

Canada isn't very crowded overall, but most people live close to the southern border with the United States. About half of all Canadians live below a line called the 49th parallel, and the most crowded area is along the Quebec City–Windsor Corridor. Canadians mostly live in families, with many households made up of couples with children.

Ethnicity

Main article: Ethnic origins of people in Canada

Canadians come from many different backgrounds. In 2021, the biggest groups were European (52.5%), North American (22.9%), and Asian (19.3%). The largest specific groups were Canadian, English, Irish, Scottish, and French. Many Canadians also have ties to countries like China, India, and the Philippines.

Languages

Main article: Languages of Canada

English and French are the official languages of Canada. Most Canadians speak English, but French is very important in Quebec and parts of other provinces. Many other languages are spoken too, including Mandarin, Punjabi, and Cantonese.

Religion

Main article: Religion in Canada

Canada has many different religions. Christianity used to be the most common, but today many Canadians don't follow any specific religion. Other groups include Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.

Health

Main article: Healthcare in Canada

Canada has a system of public healthcare called Medicare that provides medical care to everyone. However, some services like dentistry aren't covered. Canada is getting older, and healthcare is becoming more important as the population grows.

Education

Main articles: Education in Canada and Higher education in Canada

Education in Canada is mostly public and free, with each province running its own schools. Canada has many universities, and a large percentage of adults have completed college or university studies. The country spends a lot of money making sure people get good education.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Canada

Further information: Canadian values and Canadian identity

Canada is shaped by British, French, and Indigenous traditions. Over time, people from Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia have added to Canada’s rich cultural mix. Since the 1960s, Canada has embraced multiculturalism and human rights, shifting from a mainly British identity to one that celebrates many cultures.

Canada’s culture is supported by policies that promote fairness and inclusion. The country values a just society, with strong support for human rights and equality. Public policies reflect these values, including healthcare, education, and efforts to support all Canadians.

Symbols

Main articles: National symbols of Canada and Canadian royal symbols

Canada’s symbols often reflect its natural beauty and history. The maple leaf, a key symbol, appears on Canada’s flag and coat of arms. Other important symbols include the beaver, the Canada goose, and the phrase “from sea to sea.” Sports like ice hockey and lacrosse, foods such as maple syrup and poutine, and clothing like the tuque are also seen as Canadian symbols.

Literature

Main article: Canadian literature

Canadian writing is mainly in English and French, each with its own traditions. Early stories focused on exploration and nature. Over time, Canadian writers have explored many topics, including the environment, women’s rights, Indigenous experiences, and life as an immigrant. Today, Canadian authors are known worldwide and have won important international awards.

Visual arts

Main article: Canadian art

Canadian art includes work by Indigenous artists and those influenced by British, French, and other traditions. The Group of Seven is famous for its paintings of Canada’s landscapes. Inuit art has also gained international recognition. The government supports artists through grants and awards.

Music

Main article: Music of Canada

Canada has a wide range of music, from classical to modern genres. The country supports musicians through programs like the Canada Music Fund. Famous Canadian musicians and composers have achieved international success. “O Canada” is the national anthem, officially adopted in 1980.

Media

Main articles: Media of Canada and Censorship in Canada

Canada’s media is diverse and regional. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) plays a big role in creating and sharing Canadian stories. Laws and programs help protect and promote Canadian content in films, TV, and magazines, balancing local and international influences.

Sports

Main article: Sports in Canada

Canada’s official national sports are ice hockey and lacrosse. Other popular sports include curling, basketball, baseball, soccer, and football. Many Canadians enjoy swimming, cycling, and running. Canada has hosted major events like the Winter Olympics and will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.