Overview of Canada's Geography and Demographics

Oct 12, 2024

Week 1 Lecture Part 2: Canada's Basic and Enduring Features

Introduction

  • Purpose of Course: To understand and navigate Canada's political, economic, social, and cultural systems.
  • Canada’s Geographic Significance:
    • Second largest country in the world by land mass (10 million sq km).
    • Relatively small population of 40 million concentrated near the US border and in urban centers.

Demographics

  • Population: Average age is 42 years.
  • Education:
    • 88% of adults are high school graduates.
    • 34.6% have completed college.
    • 32.9% hold university degrees.
  • Home Ownership: 66.5% own homes; ~30% spend 30% or more income on housing.
  • Immigration:
    • 23% immigrant population.
    • Many Canadians are descendants of immigrants.
  • Economic Status:
    • Median household income: $73,000.
    • Median income for individuals 15+: $37,200.
  • Language:
    • Officially bilingual (French and English).
    • 18% bilingual; 75% primarily English speakers.
    • 83.5% use English at work.

Government Structure

  • Federal System:
    • Two constitutional levels: federal and provincial/territorial.
    • Federal gov’t handles national issues (currency, defense).
    • Provincial/territorial gov’ts manage local issues (healthcare, education).
  • Provinces and Territories:
    • 10 provinces (e.g., British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec).
    • 3 territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut).

Indigenous Peoples

  • History: Original inhabitants, predating European settlers.
  • Cultural Contributions: Federalism concept inspired by Indigenous governance.
  • Diversity: Indigenous groups are diverse with various languages and cultures.
  • Constitutional Recognition:
    • Three groups under Canadian law: First Nations, Métis, Inuit.

Historical Context

  • Colonization: English and French settlers arrived for exploration, resource extraction, and to escape persecution.
  • Confederation (1867): Formation of a self-governing kingdom under British Crown.

Political System

  • British Influence:
    • Westminster parliamentary system.
    • Includes executive (Prime Minister) and Parliament (House of Commons and Senate).

Geographic and Cultural Diversity

  • Regions:
    • British Columbia: Coastal, mountainous, trade with Asia.
    • Prairie Provinces: Flatlands, agriculture, oil and gas.
    • Central Canada: Ontario and Quebec, major population centers, historical colonies.
    • Atlantic Canada: Appalachian, access to Atlantic Ocean.
    • Northern Territories: Unique territories, Inuit population in Nunavut.
  • Urbanization: Most Canadians now live in urban areas.
  • Climate Diversity: Influences social and political characteristics.

Conclusion

  • Geographic and cultural diversity play a significant role in shaping Canada’s social norms and political movements.
  • Next lectures will delve deeper into Canada's governmental structure and Indigenous contributions.