British Columbia

BC-relief

Bcmap

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British Columbia Köppen

Strait of Georgia

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Shuswap Lake from Sorrento, B.C.

British Columbia (BC) is the westernmost province of Canada, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, Alberta to the east, and the United States (Alaska, Washington, Idaho, and Montana) to the north and south. With an area of approximately 944,735 square kilometers, British Columbia is Canada's third-largest province, both in area and population, after Quebec and Ontario. The capital of British Columbia is Victoria, located on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island, while the largest city is Vancouver, situated on the mainland's southwest corner.

History

The region now known as British Columbia has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with rich cultures and societies that thrived on the abundant natural resources. The arrival of Europeans in the 18th century, led by explorers such as James Cook and George Vancouver, marked the beginning of a new era. The area became a point of contention between the British and the Spanish, with the former eventually establishing control. The Hudson's Bay Company played a significant role in the early European settlement and trade in furs. The discovery of gold in the Fraser Canyon in 1858 led to the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush, significantly increasing the population and leading to the establishment of British Columbia as a British colony in 1858. It joined the Canadian Confederation on July 20, 1871, becoming the sixth province.

Geography

British Columbia's geography is characterized by its vast mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains, the Coast Mountains, and the Columbia Mountains. It also features numerous rivers and lakes, with the Fraser River being one of the most significant. The province's diverse landscapes range from the rainforests of the coast to the semi-arid conditions of the Okanagan Valley. British Columbia's parks, such as Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and Yoho National Park, are renowned for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Economy

The economy of British Columbia is diverse, with service industries, including finance, insurance, real estate, and tourism, playing a significant role. Natural resources, such as forestry, mining, and natural gas extraction, have historically been the backbone of the province's economy. In recent years, there has been a significant growth in the technology sector, particularly in Vancouver and Victoria.

Demographics

British Columbia is home to a diverse population, with a significant number of immigrants from Asia and Europe. The province also has a vibrant Indigenous community, comprising various First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people. English is the predominant language, with a significant portion of the population also speaking languages such as Punjabi, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

Culture

The culture of British Columbia is a reflection of its history and diverse population. Indigenous art, including totem poles and masks, plays a significant role in the province's cultural landscape. British Columbia is also known for its contributions to Canadian music, literature, and film, with Vancouver often referred to as "Hollywood North" due to its bustling film industry.

Government and Politics

British Columbia operates within a parliamentary democracy framework, with a unicameral legislature. The Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia represents the monarch at the provincial level, while the Premier of British Columbia serves as the head of government. The province is known for its active political scene, with the British Columbia New Democratic Party, the British Columbia Liberal Party, and the British Columbia Green Party being the major parties.