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People & Language
In earlier times, the different Indian Nations had their own languages, customs, religions, and social practises. When the European settlers arrived, efforts were made to supplant the native cultures with their own traditions and practises. By resorting to acts that meant loss of land, livelihood and lives of the Natives, they were largely successful in their mission. Today, the Native people are engaged in a cultural revival along with legal battles to correct the wrongs of an earlier age.
Another aspect of Canadian society is the tremendous ethnic diversity following immigration from all over Europe and Asia. Many of them know neither English nor French and cities have several distinct ethnic enclaves!
The two official languages in Canada are English and French. Besides these, a variety of languages are spoken across the country, ranging from Punjabi to Cantonese. The large immigrant population have brought with them their native languages and thus, there is a growing allophone population (people for whom neither French nor English are mother-tongues). The Native Indian nations have their own languages.
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Religion
Canada is primarily a Christian country as most of the early settlers, the French, British Irish and Scottish belonged to this faith. The single largest religious group in Canada are the Catholics. However, this does not mean that other religions do not thrive in this country -the Sikhs of Vancouver are the largest group of Sikhs outside of their original homeland, Punjab in India. The sizeable Chinese and Japanese communities in Canada follow Buddhist traditions.
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Food
You can eat food from all over the world in Canada thanks to the various communities from all over the world, who call this country home. Native Indian food in Canada makes the most of the wild game and edible plants found in the woodlands and is very tasty and healthy! Venison, pheasant and buffalo meat are prized delicacies and most meals are accompanied by hand picked wild rice. Thanks to the considerable French presence in the country, especially in Quebec, one can sample the best of French cuisine here. British influences in food can be seen in many parts of Canada, with the emphasis on not too much spice. The same cannot be said of the Chinese, Thai, Greek, Mexican, Italian and east Indian restaurants present in every Canadian city - spice is life here, be it the fiery curries and salsa or garlic-infused pastas and noodles.
Speaking of eating-places, Canada has a whole host of them. There are exclusive pricey restaurants, bistros, salad and sandwich bars, health-food restaurants; street-food stands as well as 'greasy spoons' (like the US diners) where meals are real cheap.
Cheese and fruit lovers will find their plates rather full in Canada -you can sample some of the best fruits and cheeses here. In summer, local varieties of apples, cherries and peaches are cheap and plentiful while June is the time for fresh, juicy strawberries. Cheddars are a Canadian specialty as is Oka, a superb cheese made by Trappist monks in Quebec. Quebec is also famous for maple syrup - great on pancakes and waffles.
Along the coasts of Canada, one can sample excellent seafood dishes. On the west coast, salmon, smoked or fresh is absolutely delicious, and you can have your fill of crab. Along the Atlantic coast, lobsters, scallops and the Atlantic salmon will tantalise your taste buds. Further north, feast on the absolutely divine Arctic char! Don't worry if you are not going to be near the sea - there are plenty of freshwater fish especially the pickerel available from inland rivers
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Culture & Crafts
If you believe that Canada is just like America, there are many Canadians who would beg to differ. Yes, there are similarities, both in terms of history and in the bustling modern cities in both countries, but there are many differences too. Canada is a mosaic of different cultures, be it the Native Indians, the British and French settler, or the hordes of new immigrants - each has retained its own distinctive characteristics and have not submerged themselves into a melting pot as has been done in many parts of America. Cultural identity is a major issue in most parts of Canada, and a cause for tension in provinces such as Quebec.
In Canada, the arts and crafts are flourishing -several award winning writers, musicians, filmmakers, artists and actors have brought acclaim to the country. Short stories seem to be the forte of Canadian writers and there are several good collections. Check out the works by Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, Rohinton Mistry, Alice Munro, WP Kinsella and Stephen Leacock for a taste of Canadian creativity. The Grammy music awards have been dominated by Canadian born singers - Alanis Morisette, Shania Twain, Celine Dion bagged the top prizes for rock, country and pop. Several big name rock musicians and bands are also from Canada - Brian Adams, Tom Cochrane, Allanah Myles while in jazz the stars are Oscar Peterson and Diana Krall. Celtic and French music are also vibrant in Canada. Canadian artists have revealed their excellence since the 1700s.
The Group of Seven artists who drew inspiration from the lake-lands of eastern Canada are the most prominent in Canada's art history.
Native Indian art in Canada is distinctive and attractive both in terms of the material used and content. Inuit carvings in stone, bone and animal horns are amazing and are totally hand done. Prints encompassing themes from mythology or daily life are also noteworthy.
Crafts in Canada include some excellent Native Indian items such as jewellery, basketry, moccasins, parkas and sweaters.
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