Key Stage 3 (KS3) General Knowledge Practice Test

The capital of Canada is Ottawa. It was chosen as the capital in 1857 by Queen Victoria due to its strategic location along the Ontario-Quebec border, which made it less vulnerable to American attacks at the time. Ottawa is also home to many important national institutions, including Parliament Hill, where the Canadian government conducts its legislative business. This makes it not only the political center of Canada but also a significant location for various cultural and historical institutions, such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.

Understanding that Ottawa serves as the seat of government helps clarify its status as the capital, while other cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, though they are major urban centers and culturally vibrant cities, do not serve as the political capital. Toronto is the largest city in Canada and is known for its financial district, while Vancouver is renowned for its scenic beauty and as a gateway to the Pacific. Montreal is famous for its rich history and French-speaking population, but none of these cities hold the political significance that Ottawa does as the capital of the country.