Canada takes up about two-fifths of the North American continent, making it the second-largest

country in the world after Russia. The country is sparsely populated, with most of its residents
living within 125 miles of its border with the United States. Canada’s expansive wilderness to
the north plays a large role in Canadian identity, as does the country’s reputation of welcoming
immigrants.

Although the Norse briefly settled in Canada during the 10th century, European exploration
accelerated in the 1500s. France and Britain angled for control over the region, with the British
cementing their dominance in the year 1763. The country was a collection of British colonies
until it became a self-governing dominion in 1867.

Canadians pride themselves in encouraging all of their citizens to honor their own cultures. In
1971, Canada adopted a national policy of multiculturalism, which celebrates the country’s
diversity. At the same time, Canada faces national challenges related to the concerns of
indigenous people and those in the predominantly French-speaking province of Quebec. While
constitutional guarantees allow the province wide-ranging cultural and linguistic autonomy,
movements for complete independence come in waves.

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The list of accomplished and eclectic Canadian writers and artists is long. Joni Mitchell, Avril
Lavigne and Drake are just a few of the Canadians who have made an impression on modern
music.

Technically, Canada is a constitutional monarchy with the U.K. monarch as the head of state.

The royal leader is represented locally by a largely ceremonial governor-general appointed by
the Canadian prime minister. The government follows the British style of parliamentary
democracy. The capital, Ottawa, is located in the province of Ontario.

Canada is a high-tech industrial society with a high standard of living. Trade agreements in the
1980s and 1990s dramatically bolstered trade with the U.S., and now the two counties are each
other's largest trading partner. While the service sector is Canada’s biggest economic driver, the
country is a significant exporter of energy, food and minerals. Canada ranks third in the world in
proven oil reserves and is the world’s fourth-largest oil producer.

Canada is a member of the United Nations, through which it has participated in many
peacekeeping missions. It is also a member of NATO and the Commonwealth of Nations.