Northwest Territories

Northwest Territories Köppen

Northern athabaskan

NWT-YT Inuvialuit Settlement Locator

Inuvialuit flag

Error creating thumbnail:

Franklin's canoes in gale

North-western-territory

Northwest Territories (NWT) is one of the three federal territories of Canada. Located in the northern part of the country, it is bordered by Yukon to the west, Nunavut to the east, the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to the south, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. The region is known for its vast landscapes, including forests, mountains, and thousands of lakes. The capital and largest city is Yellowknife.

History

The area now known as the Northwest Territories has been inhabited for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples including the Dene, Inuit, and Métis. European exploration began in the 16th century, but it was not until the 18th century that the territory became a significant area of interest for fur trade companies such as the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company. The territory was officially established by the Government of Canada in 1870, after acquiring the land from the Hudson's Bay Company. Over the years, its borders have changed significantly, mainly due to the creation of new provinces and territories such as Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Nunavut.

Geography

The Northwest Territories covers an area of approximately 1,346,106 square kilometers, making it the second-largest territory in Canada after Nunavut. The geography is diverse, ranging from the arctic tundra of the north to the boreal forests and mountain ranges of the south. The territory is home to a number of significant rivers, including the Mackenzie River, which is the second-longest river system in North America. The region is also known for its abundance of natural resources, including diamonds, gold, and natural gas.

Demographics

As of the last census, the population of the Northwest Territories was around 44,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated regions in Canada. The majority of the population lives in Yellowknife. The territory has a diverse cultural makeup, with a significant proportion of Indigenous peoples, including the Dene, Inuit, and Métis.

Economy

The economy of the Northwest Territories is largely based on natural resources, with mining being the most significant sector. Diamonds are the most important export, making Canada one of the world's largest diamond producers. Other resources include gold, oil, and natural gas. Tourism is also an important industry, with visitors drawn to the territory's natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

Government

The Northwest Territories operates under a consensus government system, which is unique in Canada. This means that there is no party system; instead, all members of the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories are elected as independents, and the premier is chosen by the members of the assembly. The territory is represented federally by one member in the House of Commons of Canada and one senator.

Culture

The culture of the Northwest Territories is heavily influenced by its Indigenous populations. Traditional music, art, and storytelling are important aspects of life in the territory. The annual Snowking Winter Festival in Yellowknife and the Great Northern Arts Festival in Inuvik are significant cultural events that draw participants and spectators from across the region and beyond.

Environmental Concerns

The Northwest Territories face several environmental challenges, including the impacts of climate change. The melting of permafrost, changes in wildlife migration patterns, and increased forest fires are significant concerns. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the territory's vast natural landscapes and the species that inhabit them.