Canada — map and facts

Canada is the world's second largest country by area, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific and north to the Arctic Ocean. With a population of around 38 million across 10 provinces and 3 territories, Canada is a federal constitutional monarchy known for its multiculturalism, vast natural landscapes, and high standard of living. The capital is Ottawa. The currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD).

About Canada

Canada is a federal constitutional monarchy in North America. Its capital is Ottawa, located in Ontario province near the border with Quebec. The country is officially bilingual — English and French — and is among the world's most multicultural nations. Canada borders the United States to the south and shares maritime borders with France (Saint Pierre and Miquelon) and Denmark (Greenland) to the east and north.

Geography and landscape

Canada covers approximately 9.98 million km², making it the world's second largest country by area. It is bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, and the United States to the south. Major features include the Rocky Mountains and Coast Mountains in the west, the Canadian Shield — a vast ancient bedrock plateau — in the centre and east, and the great prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. The St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes form the heartland of eastern Canada. Canada has the world's longest coastline and over two million lakes, holding a significant share of the planet's fresh water. Climate varies enormously: temperate on the Pacific coast, continental in the interior, subarctic in the north.

History

Indigenous peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, have inhabited Canada for thousands of years. European contact began with John Cabot's voyage in 1497 and Jacques Cartier's expeditions in the 1530s. France and Britain competed for control; Britain gained dominance after the Seven Years' War (1756–1763). The British North America Act of 1867 created the Dominion of Canada, uniting several colonies under a federal structure. Canada gained full independence with the Statute of Westminster (1931) and the Constitution Act (1982). Canada fought alongside Britain in both World Wars. Modern Canada is shaped by waves of immigration and ongoing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Economy and currency

Canada has one of the world's largest economies, driven by natural resources (oil sands, minerals, timber, fishing), manufacturing, technology, and services. The country's trade relationship with the United States is the world's largest bilateral trade relationship. The Canadian dollar (CAD) is one of the most traded currencies globally. Canada is a member of the G7 and OECD. Toronto is the financial hub; Calgary drives the energy sector; Vancouver anchors Pacific trade.

Culture and language

Canada has two official languages: English and French. French predominates in Quebec. Canada is officially multicultural — a policy enshrined in law since 1971 — and is home to large communities from Asia, South Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Indigenous cultures, from Pacific coast traditions to Arctic Inuit art, form a vital part of the national heritage. Ice hockey is the de facto national sport. Canadian literature, film, and music have a strong international presence.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Canada? Ottawa. It lies in the province of Ontario, near the border with Quebec.

What currency does Canada use? The Canadian dollar (CAD).

Does Canada have two official languages? Yes. English and French are both official at federal level; in Quebec, French is the sole official language.

What is Canada's relationship with the United States? Canada and the United States share the world's longest undefended international border and are each other's largest trading partners, bound by agreements including CUSMA (formerly NAFTA).

How large is Canada? Canada is the world's second largest country by area, covering approximately 9.98 million km².