Canada is a North American country, washed by the Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic Oceans. It is the world’s second largest country by total area and it shares the longest land border in the worlds with the United States. All in all, Canada consists of ten provinces and three territories. The word Canada was first used by early European inhabitants, meaning “village” or “land”. The capital of the country is Ottawa, which is situated on the Ottawa River. It’s a beautiful city full of parks and bridges. Other major cities include Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
Canada is a confederation with parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Its parliamentary system includes the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The sovereign of the country is Queen Elizabeth II. She is also the head of 15 other Commonwealth countries. The independence of Canada was proclaimed on July 1, 1867. There are two official languages in the country: English and French. Both these languages are used at the federal level. Canada is considered to be one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world with a population over 35 million people, including immigrants. The economy of the country is rather advanced and depends on abundant natural resources, as well as on well-developed trade networks.
The climate of Canada varies from part to part. It’s temperate in the south and arctic in the north. The majority of population inhabits the southern part of the country. Vast areas of the north are poorly inhabited. Winters in Canada can be rather harsh, especially in Prairie territories, where a continental climate is mixed with severe wind chills. The highest point in the country is Mount Logan of almost 6000 meters height. The greatest rivers in the country include the Saint Lawrence River, Ottawa, Saguenay and the Saint John River.
Canada is certainly one of the most interesting countries with its numerous landmarks and traditions. The wonders of Canada are not only natural, but also architectural, cultural and historic. Speaking about natural sights it’s necessary to mention the Great Lakes, the Niagara Falls and the Agawa Canyon area. Perhaps, the most beautiful architectural sights include the City Hall in Toronto and the Tower of Peace in Ottawa. Among the most prominent historic and cultural attractions we can outline the Canadian War Museum, the Fortress of Louisbourg, the Quebec Citadel and many others.
Most Canadian holidays and traditions match with those in other English-speaking countries, although each province or territory may have its own distinct holiday. Major Christian holidays are Christmas and Easter. They are celebrated nationwide. Other traditional celebrations include Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Saint Patrick’s Day, and some others.