Canada

Canada is the world's second largest country by total area, occupying most of northern North America. Extending from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward into the Arctic Ocean, Canada shares land borders with the United States to the south and to the northwest.

History

The geographic area that Canada inhabits was first occupied by the First Nations. European fishermen and explorers first encountered North America in the 15th Century. French explorers such as Cartier founded the first European settlements in Canada in the St. Laurent, while the English colonized Newfoundland and the northernmost parts of Canada.

Government

Canada became an independant country in 1867. Canada is composed of ten provinces and three territories. The country is a constitutional monarchy with Elizabeth II as head of state and Prime Minister Stephen Harper as head of government.

Political Divisions

Canada is composed of ten provinces and three territories. The provinces are Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. The three territories are the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon Territory. The provinces have a large degree of autonomy from the federal government, the territories somewhat less. Each has its own provincial or territorial symbols.

Language

English and French are Canada's two official languages. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms garuntees language rights in Canada.