QUOTE(EcHo @ Oct 29 2006, 09:54 PM)
Can you give me some background info on Canada? I don't know anything about it except the fact that its above America.
[right][snapback]580764[/snapback][/right]
Okay, here's a brief summary.
Canada is the second biggest country in the world by land mass, but has a low population - just over 30 million (USA has 10x as many people).
Canada is a Commonwealth Realm, so it's head of state is Queen Elizabeth II. They continue to hold strong relations with the UK. Whenever a law is passed, the Governor General (the representative of the Queen) must sign the law. This means technically that the United Kingdom has power, except that it will never be used. It is merely ceremonial.
There are two distinct cultures in Canada - English speaking and French speaking. There are many, many others, and Canada is a multicultural nation. From incidents relating back to the 60s and 70s, the francophones (French speaking) have been concerned about their culture, so language preservation laws have been passed. There are now two official languages, and every product in Canada must be labeled in English and in French.
Since WW2, Canada has taken a different approach towards military. Through strong connections through the United States, Canada has basically all the defense they need. Canada is noted now for their excellent peace keeping. Canadians are generally well liked in other countries because of their "non violence" attitude. Although they DO have an army, it is nowhere extensive of other countries, and probably could not uphold a full out offensive attack.
Canada is a cross between capitalism and state-run, similar to Sweden. People run businesses themselves, but if a need is required, the government will step in (a crown corporation). For instance, the government owns the Canadian station CBC, and the railway CN.
Canada's major exports (especially to the USA) includes oil, coal, natural gas, and lumber.