The history of European settlement in Canada began with the French colonization of Quebec (New France) in the 17th century, centered on the fur trade.

After the Seven Years' War, Britain defeated France and took control of its Canadian territories in 1763.

The British North America Act of 1867 created the Dominion of Canada through the Confederation of several colonies.

The new dominion expanded westward to the Pacific, a process facilitated by the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

The relationship with Indigenous peoples has been central to Canadian history, defined by treaties, reserves, and the controversial residential school system.

Canada gained effective independence from Britain through a gradual process, culminating in the Statute of Westminster in 1931.

Canada made significant contributions to the Allied efforts in both World War I and World War II.

The 20th century was marked by the ongoing political question of Quebec separatism and the status of the French language.

Canada adopted a policy of official multiculturalism in the 1970s.

Today, Canada is a stable parliamentary democracy known for its social welfare system and multicultural society.