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Newfoundland and Labrador is the most easterly point in North America and has its own time zone. In
addition to its natural beauty, the province has a unique heritage linked to the sea. The oldest colony of
the British Empire and a strategic prize in Canada’s early history, the province has long been known for its
fisheries, coastal fishing villages and distinct culture. Today off-shore oil and gas extraction contributes a
substantial part of the economy. Labrador also has immense hydro-electric resources.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) is the smallest province, known for its beaches, red soil and agriculture,
especially potatoes. P.E.I. is the birthplace of Confederation, connected to mainland Canada by one of
the longest continuous multispan bridges in the world, the Confederation Bridge. Anne of Green Gables,
set in P.E.I. by Lucy Maud Montgomery, is a much-loved story about the adventures of a little red-headed
orphan girl.
Prince Edward Island
Nova Scotia is the most populous Atlantic Province, with a rich history as the gateway to Canada. Known
for the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy, the province’s identity is linked to shipbuilding, fisheries
and shipping. As Canada’s largest east coast port, deep-water and ice-free, the capital, Halifax, has
played an important role in Atlantic trade and defence and is home to Canada’s largest naval base. Nova
Scotia has a long history of coal mining, forestry and agriculture. Today there is also off-shore oil and gas
exploration. The province’s Celtic and Gaelic traditions sustain a vibrant culture. Nova Scotia is home to
over 700 annual festivals, including the spectacular military tattoo in Halifax.
Nova Scotia
The Atlantic provinces
Atlantic Canada’s coasts and natural resources, including fishing, farming, forestry and mining, have
made these provinces an important part of Canada’s history and development. The Atlantic Ocean brings
cool winters and cool humid summers.
Your Canadian Citizenship
Study Guide
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