How Canada Got Its Name: A Journey Through History

The name "Canada" is deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Aboriginal heritage and the age of exploration. It’s a name that evolved through misunderstandings, adaptations, and ultimately, a blend of cultures. Here’s a journey through the fascinating story of how Canada got its name.

Aboriginal Roots: The Kanata Village

The story begins in 1535 when French explorer Jacques Cartier made his second voyage to the New World. As Cartier navigated the St. Lawrence River, he relied on two young Aboriginal interpreters, sons of the Iroquoian chief Donnacona, whom he had taken to France after his first voyage. These young guides mentioned the word “kanata” to describe the route to their village, Stadacona, located at present-day Quebec City. “Kanata” in their Huron-Iroquois language meant "village" or "settlement."

Cartier, misunderstanding the context, used “Canada” to refer not just to the village but to the entire area controlled by Chief Donnacona. This marked the beginning of the name’s adoption. By 1547, maps designated all land north of the St. Lawrence River as Canada, and the name “rivière du Canada” was used for the St. Lawrence River until the early 1600s.

Expanding the Name

As French explorers and fur traders ventured further west and south, the territory known as Canada expanded. By the early 1700s, "Canada" referred to all French lands extending into what is now the American Midwest and as far south as Louisiana. This broad application of the name persisted even as the geopolitical landscape evolved.

Official Recognition

The first official use of Canada came in 1791 when the Province of Quebec was divided into Upper Canada and Lower Canada. This division helped solidify the name's presence in North America. In 1841, the two colonies were united under the single name of the Province of Canada, reinforcing its identity.

Confederation and Alternative Names

Leading up to the Confederation in 1867, various names were proposed for the new nation, including Albertsland, Borealia, and Victorialand, among others. However, common sense and a bit of wit from Thomas D’Arcy McGee, a Canadian politician, ensured the name Canada prevailed. McGee humorously argued against the impracticality of names like Tuponia and Hochelaga, suggesting that Canadians would prefer to wake up as Canadians rather than something else.

Myths and Legends

The journey to adopting the name Canada is also sprinkled with myths and humorous anecdotes. One tale suggests that Spanish explorers, finding no riches, named the area “Capa da Nada” or “Cape Nothing,” which the French misinterpreted. Another amusing story from the Kingston Gazette in 1811 jested that "Canada" derived from settlers allowed only one can of spruce beer per day, constantly asking for their “can a day.”

A Name Befitting a Nation

Today, Canada stands as a testament to its name’s humble beginnings and its journey through history. The name “Canada,” originating from a simple word meaning "village," encapsulates the essence of a nation built on community and unity. It reflects the spirit of bringing together diverse cultures under one national identity.

As we celebrate Canada Day, it’s fitting to reflect on the colourful stories and historical moments that shaped the nation’s name. Whether it’s the Aboriginal roots, the explorations of Jacques Cartier, or the debates of the Fathers of Confederation, the name Canada is a proud emblem of a land that is truly a community.