Did you know that many Americans believe there are 13
provinces in Provinces in Canada? We Canadians know for a fact there are only
10 Provinces, so how is it that the Americans don't know it? What makes some
believe there are 13 Provinces?
In Canadian schools we are taught all about the geography of
the United States. We know there are 50 states of which most of us can name, including their Capital cities, but for some reason many Americans don't even know how many provinces are in Canada. As a matter of fact, many of them are
under the impression Canada has 13 Provinces!
I really couldn't understand this so I thought I'd look into it and did a quick keyword search on the Internet. That's where I
discovered the reason why some Americans believe this— maps. There are tons of
creative, colorful maps available online that show the Provinces of Canada. The
problem is, if one were to count the colorful spots depicted on some of these
maps they would come up with a total of 13 Provinces.
Take a look at the example posted below:
This map actually includes numbering as well which
would lead anyone to believe there are 13 Provinces in Canada. But, that's
because this particular map shows the Territories divided by individual colors
(11,12,13). In doing so, the map creates the illusion there are three additional
Provinces rather than three territories in
the northern part of Canada.
Unfortunately, it's maps such as these that lead Americans
(and others) to believe Canada has 13 Provinces instead of 10 Provinces and 3
Territories.
In an effort to set the record straight for anyone
interested in the actual geographical divisions of Canada, they are listed below. For more information on individual Provinces or Territories, click the appropriate link.
(10) Provinces
(3) Territories