key term - Ontario

Definition

Ontario is a province in Canada, known for its vast landscapes, major cities, and economic significance. It became one of the first provinces to join the Dominion of Canada following the British North America Act in 1867, playing a central role in the formation of Canada as a nation. The province is not only home to Canada's largest city, Toronto, but it also has a diverse population and rich cultural heritage that reflects the broader Canadian experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ontario was one of the four original provinces that formed the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867.
2. The province's name is derived from Lake Ontario, which was named from an Iroquoian word meaning 'great lake'.
3. Ontario is the most populous province in Canada, with over 14 million residents, contributing significantly to Canada's economy.
4. Key industries in Ontario include manufacturing, finance, technology, and agriculture, making it a vital part of the national economy.
5. Ontario has a diverse cultural landscape influenced by waves of immigration, with significant populations from various ethnic backgrounds enriching the province's heritage.

Review Questions

• What role did Ontario play in the formation of the Dominion of Canada through the British North America Act?
  • Ontario played a crucial role in the formation of the Dominion of Canada as one of its four founding provinces under the British North America Act in 1867. By joining with Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, Ontario helped establish a federal system that allowed for shared governance while maintaining provincial autonomy. This act not only facilitated Ontario's entry into Confederation but also set the stage for future expansions of Canadian provinces.
• Discuss how Ontario's demographics have influenced its development since joining the Dominion of Canada.
  • Since joining the Dominion of Canada, Ontario's demographics have significantly influenced its development. The province has seen continuous waves of immigration, resulting in a culturally diverse population that shapes its social fabric and economy. This diversity has fostered a rich cultural environment and has made Ontario an economic powerhouse by bringing various skills and innovations into its workforce, thereby enhancing its growth and development.
• Evaluate the impact of Ontario's economic contributions on the overall growth of Canada since its Confederation.
  • Ontario's economic contributions have been pivotal to Canada's growth since Confederation. As Canada's most populous province and economic engine, Ontario generates a substantial portion of national GDP through its diverse industries such as manufacturing, finance, and technology. This economic strength not only supports job creation within the province but also plays a critical role in funding federal programs and initiatives across Canada. The prosperity of Ontario has helped stabilize and enhance Canada's overall economic position on both national and international stages.

Related terms

British North America Act:

The legislation passed by the British Parliament in 1867 that created the Dominion of Canada, uniting Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a federation.

Confederation:

The process through which several provinces and territories joined together to form the Dominion of Canada in 1867, establishing a federal system of government.

Toronto: The capital city of Ontario and the largest city in Canada, serving as a major economic and cultural hub for the country.