What does the Canada's History chapter cover?
Canada's history begins with Aboriginal peoples, who lived here for thousands of years before Europeans arrived. Jacques Cartier explored the St. Lawrence River in the 1530s, and in 1608 Samuel de Champlain founded Quebec City. Britain defeated France at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759. After the American Revolution, Loyalists moved north. The War of 1812 saw Canada defended against an American invasion. On July 1, 1867, Confederation united Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick into the Dominion of Canada, with Sir John A. Macdonald as the first Prime Minister. Canada then expanded west, and Canadians fought in the First World War, including at Vimy Ridge in 1917, and in the Second World War, including on D-Day in 1944.
What key facts should I remember?
- Confederation took place on July 1, 1867, with four original provinces.
- Sir John A. Macdonald was Canada's first Prime Minister.
- The Battle of Vimy Ridge (April 1917) is a symbol of Canadian nationhood.
- Canadians landed at Juno Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944.
- The Canadian Pacific Railway was completed in 1885.
Common test questions from this chapter
When did Canada become a country?
On July 1, 1867, at Confederation.
Which four provinces formed Canada in 1867?
Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
How should I practise next?
- Take a free 20-question practice test mixing all chapters.
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