The Formation of Canada: A Historical Overview

Canada, as we know it today, is a nation formed by the amalgamation of several British colonies over the years. This process culminated in the creation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867 and continued to evolve through various territories joining the union. This article delves into the historical journey of how these colonies shaped the modern Canada.

The Initial Formation of Canada

Initially, Canada was formed from the amalgamation of six colonies. In 1867, three colonies: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and 'The United Province of Canada' (which later split into Ontario and Quebec) became part of the Dominion of Canada.

The 'United Province of Canada' was a union of Upper and Lower Canada, which were administered as a single entity starting from 1840. While it had some separate institutions, like the Law Society of Upper Canada, they were not fully independent.

The Formation of Other Provinces and Territories

Over the next few decades, additional territories joined the new Dominion of Canada:

Rupert's Land (1870): Purchased from the Hudson's Bay Company for $1.6 million and subsequently divided into the Province of Manitoba, the Northwest Territory, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and today's Yukon, Nunavut and Northwest Territories. British Columbia (1871): Joined as the seventh province. Prince Edward Island (1873): Joined as the eighth province. Newfoundland and Labrador (1949): The last province to join, originally just known as Newfoundland until 2001 when it was renamed as Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thus, the total number of former British Crown Colonies that are now part of Canada amounts to six. Rupert's Land, from which Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and today's Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories were created, was never a colony in the traditional sense.

The Significance of Confederation

The creation of the self-governing Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867, was based on an agreement referred to as Confederation. This agreement was between three British colonies: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the United Province of Canada.

Over the years, these colonies and additional territories were incorporated into a unified nation, creating the diverse and rich fabric of modern Canada. This process of joining forces and forming a stronger union not only enriched the country but also laid the foundation for the nation's growth and development.