Canadian culture is diverse, complex, and influenced by various factors like history, geography, climate, languages, and demographics. Here are 5 key things that help define and shape Canadian cultural identity and values:
Multiculturalism
One of the most defining aspects of Canadian culture is its multiculturalism. Canada is home to diverse ethnic and cultural groups due to a long history of immigration. As of 2016, over 7.6 million foreign-born individuals live in Canada, which is over 21% of the total population. This multiculturalism is officially recognized and promoted through Canada’s Multiculturalism Act and policies. Some key facts about Canada’s cultural diversity:
- Over 250 different ethnic origins reported in Canada’s 2016 census
- Top immigrant source countries include India, China, Philippines, and other Asian countries
- Indigenous groups include First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples
- There are two official languages – English and French
This diversity has enriched Canadian culture with diverse cuisine, music, arts, festivals, and traditions while creating a more open, tolerant, and progressive society. Canada is seen as an example of successful multicultural integration compared to many other countries.
Hockey and Sports Culture
Sports play a huge role in Canadian culture and identity, with ice hockey being a central part of Canadian life. Some facts:
- Hockey is Canada’s official national winter sport
- 7.3 million Canadians counted hockey as a favorite activity or sport (2016)
- Many young Canadians grow up playing hockey
- The NHL is hugely popular, with 7 Canadian teams
- Icons like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby are national heroes
Beyond hockey, Canadians also love other sports like football, baseball, curling, lacrosse, and more. Major events like the Calgary Stampede rodeo and Olympics also showcase Canada’s sporting culture.
Affinity for the Outdoors
Canada’s vast natural landscape helps shape its culture and national identity. With a rugged coastline, vast forests, Arctic tundra, and the Canadian Shield, Canada has abundant wilderness, mountains, lakes, and natural resources. Some key facts:
- 10% of the world’s forests are in Canada
- 7 of the 20 largest lakes in the world are Canadian
- Canada has more coastline than any other country at 202,080 km
- Popular outdoor activities: camping, fishing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and more
Canadians have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and nature. National and provincial parks aim to preserve natural areas while promoting recreation and education. Environmental protection is an important value tied to Canada’s natural heritage.
Polarized Identity
Canada’s cultural identity has long been polarized between English and French Canada. Here’s a brief overview:
- French explorer Jacques Cartier claimed Canada for France in 1534
- Britain gained control of much of Canada by 1763 after the Seven Years’ War
- French culture and identity remained strong in Quebec, while English dominance spread across other parts of Canada
- Two main European founding nations – French and British
This English-French divide influenced Canada’s politics, education systems, religions, arts, and more. While this polarization has softened over time, you can still see French-English cultural tensions in modern Canada over language laws, secession debates, and cultural protectionism.
Northern Identity
Canada’s northern geography has shaped its cultural image and identity as well. Some key facts:
- Canada is the 2nd largest country by area, with a vast northern geography
- About 40% of Canada’s land mass is north of the 60th parallel
- Long, harsh winters shape lifestyle, culture, and activities
- Northern imagery prominently featured in art, literature, films, and advertising
Canada is sometimes called the “Great White North” and this northern identity is proudly embraced. Winter sports, Arctic research, northern indigenous cultures (Inuit), and a frontier spirit are all part of Canada’s northern culture.
Other Notable Aspects of Canadian Culture
Beyond the main 5, there are other notable traits that help characterize Canadian culture:
- Social values – Canadians generally support multiculturalism, inclusion, environmentalism, and progressive policies like universal healthcare and gun control.
- Humility – Unlike their American neighbors, Canadians are generally more low-key, modest, and unassuming.
- Humor – Canadians enjoy comedy and satire, with a tradition of funny musicians, actors, and comedians.
- Food – Food culture blends indigenous fare with immigrant cuisine like Chinese, Indian, Italian, and more. Iconic foods include poutine, Montreal-style bagels, maple syrup, and Canadian bacon.
- Arts – Canada has produced famous artists and authors from Emily Carr to Margaret Atwood. Canada also has a vibrant indie music scene.
Conclusion
In summary, Canadian culture has been shaped by diverse influences like multiculturalism, sports, the environment, English-French duality, northern identity, and progressive values. While difficult to define, one can identify 5 main pillars that characterize modern Canadian culture: multiculturalism, hockey and sports, outdoors, polarization, and northern identity. Beyond these central themes, Canada also demonstrates traits like humility, humor, love of the arts, and more. The shared history, experiences, values, and behaviors of people across Canada’s vast geography combine to form a mosaic of culture and identity that continues to evolve.