CHAPTER 3 · STUDY GUIDE
Canada's History
Review major events, people and milestones that shaped Canada as a country.
Practice this chapter →Before Confederation
Indigenous peoples lived across the land now known as Canada long before European exploration. French and British settlement later developed in different regions. New France became an important French-speaking colony, while British North America grew through settlement, trade and political change.
The War of 1812
The War of 1812 involved the United States, Great Britain and British North America. Indigenous peoples and their allies played important roles in the conflict. The war is an important part of Canada's early history and helped shape the development of a distinct Canadian identity.
Confederation
On July 1, 1867, the Dominion of Canada was created through Confederation. Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick became the original four provinces. Confederation established a federal system of government and provided a framework for the country's later expansion.
Building the country
Canada expanded westward and northward after Confederation. Manitoba joined Confederation in 1870, British Columbia in 1871, Prince Edward Island in 1873, and other provinces and territories joined or were created later. The Canadian Pacific Railway helped connect the country and supported settlement and trade.
Important people
Sir John A. Macdonald was Canada's first Prime Minister and an important figure in Confederation and national expansion. Other leaders and communities, including Indigenous peoples, played significant roles in Canada's development. For the citizenship test, focus on the people and events specifically highlighted in Discover Canada.
What to remember for the test
- Confederation took place on July 1, 1867.
- The original four provinces were Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
- Sir John A. Macdonald was Canada's first Prime Minister.
- The Canadian Pacific Railway helped connect the country.