1. Canada

2. Population Made up of immigrants and descendents of Native Americans came to Canada in search of political and religious freedom, economic and educational opportunities, and refuge from wars The Loyalists (colonists who remained loyal to the British government) fled to Canada after the American Revolution Mix of ethnic origins varies from province to province

3. Urban Areas and Economy Toronto  Canada’s largest city  Industrial and financial city Montreal  Industrial and shipping center through the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers and the Great Lakes Vancouver  Handles almost all trade between Canada and Asia Edmonton  Petroleum industry location

5. Government Created as a dominion (partially self-governing country with ties to Great Britain) Gained full independence in 1931 with G.B. keeping the right to approve changes to Canada’s constitution  Now a constitutional monarchy Executive branch: governor-general, prime minister, and the cabinet  British monarchy still serves as head of state and appoints a governor- general to act in his/her place Legislative branch: Parliament, including the Senate and the House of Commons  Prime minister is the actual head of government Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Canada  Made up of 9 judges

6. Education and Health Care Literacy rate of 97% Attending school is a requirement for children ages 6-16 Each province is responsible for organizing and administering public education Canadian government helps pay for health care (public health care system)  Each province responsible for financing and managing its own system

7. Language and Religion Two official languages: English and French  French is the dominant language in province of Quebec Other languages spoken: German, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese Native languages: Cree and Inuktitut Christianity is the largest religious group  Others include Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and Sikhism