Discover the beauty, history, and economy of the world's second-largest country
Canada occupies most of northern North America, extending from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west and northward into the Arctic Ocean. It is the world�s second-largest country by total area and shares land borders with the United States to the south and northwest.
The land now known as Canada was inhabited for millennia by various aboriginal peoples. Beginning in the late 15th century, British and French expeditions explored and settled the Atlantic coast. After the Seven Years' War, France ceded nearly all of its colonies in North America in 1763.
Canada was formed in 1867 through confederation as a federal dominion of four provinces. This began a gradual process of autonomy from the United Kingdom, marked by the Statute of Westminster in 1931 and culminating in the Canada Act of 1982, which severed remaining legal ties with the British parliament.
Today, Canada is a federation comprising ten provinces and three territories. It is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy, with King Charles III as its head of state. Canada is officially bilingual and multicultural, with English and French as federal languages.
From whale-watching in Victoria to skiing in Whistler, hiking in Banff, canoeing the Red River, shopping on Yonge Street in Toronto, antiquing in Quebec City, lobster fishing in Halifax, and dog-sledding in Tuktoyaktuk�Canada offers thrilling adventures and diverse experiences in every region.
Spanning over 7,000 kilometers from Vancouver to Newfoundland, Canada is a traveler's paradise, whether you're visiting internationally or exploring your homeland.
Canada has transformed from a largely rural economy into a highly industrialized and urban society. Since World War II, its manufacturing, mining, and service sectors have grown significantly. Real growth rates have averaged nearly 3.0% since 1993, with unemployment falling and budget surpluses helping reduce public debt.
Canada resembles the United States in its market-oriented economy, production patterns, and living standards. The 1989 US-Canada Free Trade Agreement and the 1994 NAFTA agreement have spurred increased trade and economic integration with the US. With vast natural resources, a skilled workforce, and a modern economy, Canada has a strong economic outlook.