Canada–United States border

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A section of the Canada–United States border

Characteristics
Entities
Length	8,891 km (5,525 mi)
Enclave and exclaves
Established	1783
Current shape	1908
Disestablished
Treaties
Notes	Longest international border in the world

The Canada–United States border is the longest international border in the world, stretching 8,891 kilometers (5,525 miles) across North America. It separates the two countries of Canada and the United States, and is notable for its peaceful nature and extensive history.

History

The border was first established by the Treaty of Paris (1783), which ended the American Revolutionary War and recognized American independence. The treaty set the boundary between the United States and British North America (now Canada) along the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River.

Subsequent treaties, such as the Jay Treaty of 1794 and the Treaty of 1818, further defined the border. The Oregon Treaty of 1846 established the boundary west of the Rocky Mountains along the 49th parallel.

The final major adjustment to the border was the Alaska Boundary Dispute, resolved in 1903, which defined the boundary between Alaska and Canada.

Geography

The border traverses a variety of terrains, including forests, mountains, and lakes. It is divided into two main sections:

• The eastern section, which runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes.
• The western section, which extends from the Great Lakes to the Pacific Ocean.

The border is marked by a series of boundary markers and is maintained by the International Boundary Commission.

Border Crossings

There are over 100 official land border crossings between Canada and the United States. Major crossings include:

• Peace Bridge between Buffalo, New York and Fort Erie, Ontario
• Ambassador Bridge between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario
• Blaine, Washington and Surrey, British Columbia

These crossings are managed by the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Economic and Social Impact

The Canada–United States border is a vital economic artery, with billions of dollars in trade crossing it annually. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and its successor, the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), have facilitated trade and economic integration between the two countries.

Socially, the border has fostered cultural exchange and cooperation. Many communities along the border have strong cross-border ties, and there are numerous initiatives to promote collaboration in areas such as environmental protection and public health.

Security and Challenges

While the border is known for its peaceful nature, it also presents security challenges. Both countries have implemented measures to address issues such as smuggling and illegal immigration. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires travelers to present a passport or other approved documentation when crossing the border.

See Also

• International Boundary Commission
• Canada Border Services Agency
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection

References

• "Canada–United States Border." Government of Canada.
• "The Canada-U.S. Border: An Overview." U.S. Department of State.

External Links

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Canada Border Services Agency