Lesson 9: The Land and Canadian Identity 

1. Introduction

Canada’s land is one of its most important features, and it has shaped the way Canadians live and understand their country. With a landscape that stretches from frozen tundra in the Arctic to the rocky coasts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the land has influenced how people survive, work, and express their culture. The geography of Canada is vast and diverse, and this has played a huge role in forming Canadian identity.

The connection between the land and Canadian identity is not new. Indigenous peoples have had a deep relationship with the land for thousands of years, relying on it for food, shelter, and spiritual connection. Over time, as settlers and immigrants arrived, they also had to adapt to the land, using its natural resources to build communities and industries. The land has always been more than just a place to live—it has shaped how Canadians see themselves.

Canada’s land is a symbol of its natural beauty, but it also represents the struggles and challenges that have made Canadians tough and resilient. Whether it’s braving cold winters, crossing the Rockies, or farming the Prairies, the land has taught Canadians to work hard and rely on each other. Today, Canada’s geography continues to shape its identity, influencing culture, economy, and the way Canadians interact with the world.

2. The Geography of Canada

Canada is the second-largest country in the world, and its geography is incredibly diverse. This variety in the land shapes how people live and what kinds of industries are important in different regions. Canada can be divided into several major geographic regions, each with its own unique climate, landforms, and resources.

1. Arctic Region:
The Arctic is in the far north of Canada and is known for its freezing temperatures, icy landscapes, and long, dark winters. The land is mostly tundra, with permafrost beneath the surface, making it difficult for large plants to grow. Indigenous peoples, like the Inuit, have lived in this region for thousands of years, adapting to the cold environment by hunting animals such as seals and caribou. This harsh landscape is important to Canada’s northern identity.

2. Pacific Coast:
The Pacific Coast, on the western edge of Canada, includes British Columbia. This region is known for its temperate rainforests, mountains, and access to the Pacific Ocean. The city of Vancouver, located here, is one of Canada’s largest and most diverse urban areas. The Pacific Ocean provides important resources, especially for fishing, while the mountains support industries like forestry and tourism.

3. Interior Plains:
The Interior Plains, also called the Prairies, stretch across the middle of Canada, covering parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This region is known for its flat, open land and rich soil, which makes it ideal for farming. The Prairies are often referred to as the "breadbasket" of Canada because so much of the country’s grain and food comes from this region. The plains also have valuable oil and natural gas reserves, which have helped grow the economy.

4. Canadian Shield:
The Canadian Shield is a large area of rocky land that covers parts of Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, and the northern territories. It is one of the oldest and largest geologic formations in the world. The land is filled with forests, lakes, and minerals. Mining and forestry are two major industries in this region, and the many lakes make it a popular destination for outdoor activities like fishing and camping.

5. St. Lawrence Lowlands:
Located in southern Quebec and Ontario, the St. Lawrence Lowlands is the most populated region in Canada. It is known for its fertile farmland, mild climate, and access to major waterways, such as the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes. This area is home to major cities like Toronto and Montreal and plays a central role in Canada’s economy.

6. Atlantic Provinces:
The Atlantic region includes provinces like Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. This region is known for its rocky coastlines, fishing villages, and maritime culture. Fishing has been a major part of the economy for hundreds of years, although industries like tourism and technology are also growing today.

Each of these regions offers something unique, whether it’s resources, culture, or how people live. Canada’s geography isn’t just about the land itself—it’s about how the land shapes Canadian identity and the ways in which people adapt to live in these diverse environments.

3. Indigenous Peoples and the Land

Indigenous peoples have lived in Canada for thousands of years, long before European settlers arrived. For them, the land is more than just a place to live—it is central to their identity, culture, and way of life. Different Indigenous groups, such as the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, have unique connections to the land, depending on where they live. These connections are tied to traditions, spirituality, and survival.

For many Indigenous peoples, the land is seen as a living being. It provides everything they need: food, water, shelter, and medicine. For example, the Inuit of the Arctic region rely on hunting animals like seals, whales, and caribou for food, clothing, and tools. Their connection to the icy, barren landscape is reflected in their traditional knowledge, which has helped them survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

The First Nations peoples, who live in various regions of Canada, also have strong ties to the land. The Cree and Ojibwe peoples of the boreal forest, for example, rely on the forests, rivers, and lakes for hunting, fishing, and gathering. For many First Nations, the land is considered sacred. Spiritual ceremonies and storytelling often focus on nature, teaching that the land and all living things are interconnected.

Indigenous governance was also shaped by the land. Many First Nations developed systems of governance and decision-making that revolved around their relationship with nature. For example, in some Indigenous communities, decisions were made with future generations in mind, ensuring that the land and resources would be preserved for those yet to come. This concept is known as "sustainability" today, but it has been part of Indigenous traditions for thousands of years.

Despite the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and the land, European settlers disrupted these relationships when they arrived. Colonization and the expansion of European settlements forced many Indigenous peoples off their traditional lands. Treaties were signed, often unfairly, leading to the loss of land and resources for many Indigenous groups. Today, the legacy of these treaties continues to affect Indigenous communities, as many fight for land rights and seek justice through processes like reconciliation.

Reconciliation is a movement to recognize the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and to work towards healing and restoring relationships. Land plays a crucial role in reconciliation, as many Indigenous peoples continue to seek the return of traditional lands or greater control over the land and resources in their territories. Modern land claim agreements, such as those in the Yukon or Nunavut, have given some Indigenous groups more control over their lands and a say in how resources are used.

In today’s Canada, the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the land remains strong. Many Indigenous communities continue to practice traditional activities, like hunting and fishing, while also engaging in modern industries like tourism, arts, and sustainable resource management. Indigenous peoples are working to maintain their connection to the land while navigating the challenges of living in a rapidly changing world.

The land is not just a physical space for Indigenous peoples—it is the foundation of their culture, knowledge, and identity. It has shaped their past, present, and will continue to shape their future.

4. Immigration and Settlement

Immigration has played a huge role in shaping Canada’s identity, and the country’s land has always influenced where and how immigrants settled. From the early days of French and British colonization to modern times, people from all over the world have come to Canada in search of new opportunities. The geography of Canada—its rivers, mountains, forests, and prairies—determined where these newcomers settled and how they adapted to the land.

In the 1600s, French settlers arrived in what is now Quebec, choosing to settle along the St. Lawrence River. The river provided fresh water, fertile soil, and easy transportation, which allowed the early settlers to farm and trade. Many of these early settlers became fur traders, using Canada’s vast forests and rivers to trap animals like beavers, whose pelts were valuable in Europe. The French also formed relationships with Indigenous peoples, learning how to navigate the land and survive in the challenging environment.

British settlers, who arrived a bit later, also established colonies in what is now Atlantic Canada and Ontario. They, too, relied on the natural resources of the land, especially in the Atlantic provinces, where fishing became a key industry. Over time, these early colonies grew and spread, but the geography of Canada played a major role in determining how quickly settlements expanded.

One of the most important developments in the settlement of Canada was the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in the late 1800s. Before the railway, it was difficult for settlers to reach the vast interior of Canada, especially the Prairies, which are located far from the coast. The completion of the CPR in 1885 made it possible for people to travel from the east to the west coast. This encouraged thousands of settlers, particularly from Europe, to move to the Prairies.

Many of these settlers came from countries like Ukraine, Poland, and Germany, and they were drawn to the wide-open spaces of the Prairies, where they could farm the rich soil. The flat, fertile land made the Prairies perfect for growing wheat and other crops. Ukrainian immigrants, for example, were known for their ability to farm the land efficiently, and they became an important part of the Prairie communities. Today, these regions still celebrate their unique immigrant heritage with festivals and cultural events.

In the 20th century, immigration to Canada increased even more, especially after World War II, when people from all over the world, including Italy, China, India, and the Caribbean, began to arrive. Many of these new immigrants settled in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, which are located near water and natural resources. These cities grew quickly, becoming centers of industry and trade. The geography of these areas—particularly their proximity to ports and rivers—made them ideal places for new immigrants to start businesses, work in factories, or join established communities.

Today, immigration continues to shape Canada, and new Canadians bring with them their own cultural connections to the land. Whether in large cities or rural communities, immigrants have contributed to the development of Canada’s diverse regions, helping to build industries and shape the culture.

5. Natural Resources and Economy

Canada is rich in natural resources, and these resources have played a major role in shaping its economy and identity. From forests and minerals to oil and fisheries, the land provides the materials that have powered Canadian industries for centuries. The way Canadians use and manage these resources has had a lasting impact on the country’s economic development and its relationship with the land.

One of the earliest and most important industries in Canada was the fur trade. Starting in the 1600s, European settlers and Indigenous peoples worked together to trap and trade furs, especially beaver pelts, which were in high demand in Europe for making hats. The fur trade was not only an economic activity—it also helped to map and explore vast areas of Canada. The rivers and forests of central and northern Canada became major trade routes, and cities like Montreal grew as centers of the fur industry.

Forestry is another key industry, especially in provinces like British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, where Canada’s vast forests provide timber for construction, paper, and other products. The logging industry shaped many rural communities and is still an important part of Canada’s economy today. However, sustainable forest management has become crucial to ensure that these natural resources are preserved for future generations.

Fishing has also been central to Canada’s economy, particularly on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The rich fishing grounds off Newfoundland and the Maritimes supported the livelihoods of many Canadians for centuries, with cod, lobster, and other seafood forming the basis of local economies. On the Pacific Coast, salmon fishing has been a major industry, with many First Nations relying on the fish for both food and cultural traditions.

In addition to its renewable resources, Canada is also known for its wealth of mineral resources. The Canadian Shield, which stretches across much of central and northern Canada, is rich in minerals like gold, copper, and nickel. Mining towns, such as Sudbury in Ontario, grew around these resources, and mining continues to be a major industry, contributing billions of dollars to the Canadian economy each year.

Finally, the discovery of oil and natural gas in the Prairies, particularly in Alberta, transformed the region into a hub for the energy industry. The oil sands in Alberta are one of the largest reserves of oil in the world. While this industry has brought economic growth, it has also raised concerns about environmental impacts, including climate change. Today, there is a focus on balancing resource extraction with environmental sustainability, ensuring that Canada’s natural resources are used responsibly.

Canada’s natural resources have always been central to its economic development. As industries have grown around these resources, they have shaped both the regions where they are found and Canada’s identity as a country with a deep connection to its land.

6. The Land and National Identity

The land has not only shaped how Canadians live and work—it has also become a central part of Canada’s national identity. From coast to coast, the vast wilderness, rugged landscapes, and challenging climates have shaped the way Canadians see themselves and their country. Whether through cultural symbols, art, or outdoor activities, the land is deeply connected to what it means to be Canadian.

One of the strongest aspects of Canadian identity is the sense of resilience and toughness that comes from living in a country with such a wide range of environments. Canadians often take pride in their ability to endure cold winters, long distances, and remote locations. This idea of toughness is linked to Canada’s history of exploration and survival in the wilderness, where early settlers and Indigenous peoples had to rely on the land for food, shelter, and warmth.

Canada’s natural beauty is another key part of its identity. People from around the world associate Canada with its breathtaking landscapes—whether it’s the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the expansive prairies, or the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic. These landscapes are often celebrated in Canadian art and literature, helping to define the country’s image both at home and abroad.

For example, the famous Group of Seven painters, who were active in the early 20th century, created iconic works that focused on the raw beauty of the Canadian wilderness. They painted forests, lakes, and mountains, capturing the sense of isolation and majesty found in nature. Their work helped to establish a uniquely Canadian style of art that remains influential today.

Canadian identity is also shaped by symbols connected to the land. The beaver, for example, is a national symbol that reflects the importance of the fur trade in Canadian history. The maple leaf is another key symbol, representing the vast maple forests found in eastern Canada. These symbols are reminders of the country’s relationship with the land and its natural resources. Even the national anthem, "O Canada," reflects the importance of the land with the line "our home and native land."

Outdoor activities are a huge part of life for many Canadians, and they have helped to define the culture of the country. Hiking, canoeing, skiing, and camping are popular pastimes that allow Canadians to connect with their environment. National parks, such as Banff and Jasper in the Rockies, protect some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and are visited by millions of people each year. For many Canadians, exploring the wilderness is not just a leisure activity but a way to connect with the country’s roots and identity.

Canada’s harsh climate and diverse landscapes have also influenced the country’s sense of regional identity. The vast differences between regions—such as the dry, flat Prairies and the wet, mountainous Pacific Coast—mean that Canadians in different parts of the country often have unique ways of life. People in rural areas may be more connected to the land through farming, fishing, or mining, while those in cities experience the land through urban parks and green spaces. These regional differences are a key part of what makes Canada diverse and unique.

Overall, the land is central to Canada’s national identity. It shapes how Canadians think about themselves and how they are seen by others around the world. Whether through art, symbols, or outdoor activities, the connection to the land is something that unites Canadians, despite the vast differences across the country.

7. Conclusion

The land has played an essential role in shaping Canada’s identity and culture, influencing how Canadians live, work, and see themselves. From the vast, icy Arctic to the fertile St. Lawrence Lowlands, the country’s geography has not only provided resources but has also shaped the character of its people. Whether it’s the rugged spirit that comes from surviving harsh winters or the pride in Canada’s natural beauty, the land has always been at the heart of Canadian life.

Indigenous peoples have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years, viewing it as a source of life and spiritual connection. As settlers and immigrants arrived, they, too, adapted to the land and developed industries that reflected its resources. Whether farming the prairies, fishing the coasts, or mining the Canadian Shield, the land has always been central to the development of communities and economies across Canada.

Canada’s identity is also reflected in its cultural symbols and outdoor activities. Canadians take pride in their national parks, symbols like the beaver and maple leaf, and the activities that allow them to experience the land firsthand, such as hiking, skiing, and canoeing. The land shapes not just where Canadians live but how they live, think, and interact with the world.

In today’s Canada, the connection between land and identity remains strong. Even in modern, urban areas, Canadians value their natural landscapes and continue to celebrate the beauty and diversity of their environment. The land is more than just a backdrop to life in Canada—it is a vital part of what makes the country unique.