Correr Es Mi Destino

What defines Canada? I’m starting a series on our icons, from people to places, from everyday life’s items to sports, from trademarks to customs. Don’t expect anything too deep: this is Canada the way I see it. I don’t bring answers. I just want to share, and I will with you every Saturday — enjoy!

When I’ll take the oath of citizenship, I’ll have to swear that “I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second”. Yes… even though Canada is a sovereign country, it is a constitutional monarchy with Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, as head of state, and a parliamentary democracy with a federal system. Sounds complicated, doesn’t it?

The course of Aboriginal history has been deeply altered since the settlers came to Canada. Indeed, the laws (like the Indian Act) they imposed would affect the relationship between the two parts.

Don’t ever mistake a Canadian for an American. I mean, seriously! It’s the best way to get a snowball thrown at you.

Canada: a population of 32 millions… and we are all different. Isn’t it nice?

Granted, when it comes to dangerous and weird animals, Australia is probably number one (I will never forget driving at dusk in Alice Spring… bloody kangaroos!). But Canada, with its huge land mass and small population density, also has a great wildlife.

Yes, Canadian treats. Good. Sweet stuffs to help us survive harsh winter. Just have a look at that!

Unless you’re from Russia or China, you will probably feel that Canada is a pretty big place. And if you’re from Russia, please let’s not argue about the Northwest Passage — it’s not like we can navigate it yet, okay?

The province of Quebec’s official language is French, and the province of New-Brunswick is officially bilingual. For the other provinces and territories, it’s a bit of a grey area… English is most widely spoken but there are French communities almost everywhere: in Ontario (the Franco-Ontariens), in Manitoba, in Alberta…