Canada’s History and Symbols
In 1535, two Aboriginal youths used the Huron-Iroquois word "kanata," which means "village" or "settlement," to tell Jacques Cartier the way to Stadacona (site of present-day Québec City). Cartier used "Canada" to refer not only to Stadacona, but also to the entire area subject to Donnacona, Chief at Stadacona.
The first used of "Canada" as an official name came in 1791 when the Constitutional Act divided Quebec into the provinces of Upper Canada and Lower Canada. In 1841, they were united to become the Province of Canada. At the time of Confederation, the new country took the name of Canada.
Confederation
On July 1st, 1867 the provinces below joined together to form the new country of Canada:
- Ontario
- Quebec
- New Brunswick
- Nova Scotia
This "joining together" event is known as Confederation. The anniversary of Confederation is celebrated as Canada Day.
Made official by the British North America Act of 1867.
Sir John A. MacDonald selected as the first Prime Minister.
| Date | Province |
|---|---|
| 1870 | Manitoba, Northwest Territories |
| 1871 | British Columbia |
| 1873 | Prince Edward Island |
| 1898 | Yukon Territory |
| 1905 | Alberta, Saskatchewan |
| 1949 | Newfoundland |
| 1999 | Nunavut |
Maple Leaf
- earliest known use: 1700.
- now on reverse of 1¢ coin.
- maple leaf flag adopted on February 15, 1965
beaver
appears on the reverse of the 5¢ coin.
Parliament Buildings
in Ottawa.
tower in centre known as Peace Tower. big one with the clock.
Constitution
The Constitution Act in 1982 gave the Canadian Parliament the right to change the Constitution without having to get the change approved by the British Parliament.
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms added to the Constitution in 1982.
The Queen
Still Head of State.
Governor-General is her representative in Canada.
Provincial representatives of the Queen are known as lieutenant governors
O Canada
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command
With glowing hearts we see thee rise
The true North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada
We stand on guard for thee
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee
pp 12-13