Canada Day
On July 1, 1867, Canada became a country. Originally called the Dominion of Canada, it started with four provinces – Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the former Province of Canada split into Quebec and Ontario. This confederation had taken some years to achieve for several reasons. English and French speaking populations and their leaders had differing ideas on government and how to run one. There were trade and commercial problems that suggested a solution lay in fewer trade barriers. Political upheaval and war fought between the young USA and England had erupted into a second two-year war from 1812 and into the recent American Civil War in which England had supported the South, leaving the northern colonies open to invasion.
More than a century later, the country had added six other provinces and three territories. During these years, Canada amended, patriated, and updated its constitution that includes a Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Like any democracy, Canada continues to be a work in progress. Successive generations have worked toward a more inclusive government and to promote and encourage cultural sensitivities and respectful interactions. The several indigenous First Nations within Canada’s boundaries help lead the way to better and mindful land stewardship.
Now the largest country by total area in the Western Hemisphere, Canada is a land of physical contrasts that include examples of every type of ecosystem and a population that enjoys its great outdoors. Providing outdoor venues under informed eco-sensitive stewardship, Parks Canada was the world’s first national parks service. Collectively, its parks cover an area larger than the combined areas of Greece and Portugal – about one-quarter of a million km2 (87,000 mi2 ). Great, spacious places to celebrate the country — Canada Day!
This official bilingual version of Canada’s national anthem features each of the country’s official languages along with its gender inclusivity.
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all of us command,
Car ton bras sait porter l’épée,
Il sait porter la croix!
Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits,
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
B Bondar / Real World Content Advantage