World Geography / Unit 5: North America
5.4 Canada
Notes
Canada is the second-largest country in the world by area (after Russia) but has a small population.
- It has 10 provinces and 3 territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut). The capital is Ottawa.
- Most Canadians live in a band within a few hundred miles of the southern border, in cities such as Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.
- English and French are official languages. Quebec is mainly French-speaking.
- Indigenous peoples include First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Nunavut, created in 1999, is largely Inuit.
- Canada is a federal parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy with a prime minister.
- Natural resources: forests, oil and natural gas (Alberta), minerals, fresh water, fish.
Practice
What is the capital of Canada?
Ottawa lies on the Ontario-Quebec border.
Which province is mostly French-speaking?
Quebec's culture and law reflect its French heritage.
Why do most Canadians live in the southern part of the country?
The far north is cold and remote.
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