Understand

British Columbia, the sixth province to join the Confederation of Canada in 1871, has a fascinating history and cultural influences. The promise of a railway connecting BC to the rest of Canada played a pivotal role in its inclusion. Overcoming geographical barriers and political challenges, the completion of the railway occurred in 1885, commemorated by the driving of the last spike at Craigellachie in the Eagle Pass area. BC's location on the Pacific coast has resulted in a strong Asian influence, with Chinese immigrants arriving during the 19th-century gold rush and later contributing to the construction of the mountain railway. Japanese communities also emerged along the coast, and their displacement during World War II has had a lasting impact on the province. The indigenous people of BC, now referred to as First Nations, thrived in this bountiful region, supported by the abundance of salmon. However, the arrival of Europeans brought devastating diseases and disrupted their way of life. First Nations were subjected to government-sponsored residential schools aimed at assimilation, a dark chapter recently brought to light. Nevertheless, many First Nations communities are now playing a vital role in the ecotourism industry and are actively working to revive their culture. Land ownership and treaty disputes continue to be significant issues, with the courts recognizing the claims of First Nations based on historical land use and urging negotiations for settlement. The signing of modern treaties with First Nations, such as the Nis'ga, Tsawassen, and Maa-Nulth, represents progress in addressing these complex matters.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and a generous amount of gravy. This dish originates from the province of Quebec but is now widely enjoyed across Canada. It's typically a non-spicy, warm, and filling meal.

Smoked salmon is a popular food item in Canada, particularly in British Columbia where the Pacific salmon is abundant. The salmon is cured with salt and sugar, then cold-smoked over wood chips to enhance its flavor. It's often served as an appetizer, accompanied by cream cheese, bagels, or crackers. The dish offers a mixture of savory and slightly smoky taste, making it a refreshing choice.

Butter tarts are a sweet and flaky dessert native to Canada, particularly popular in the prairie provinces. A butter tart consists of a pastry shell filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and syrup, often with added raisins or pecans. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them a beloved Canadian treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing