On July 1, 1867, the British North America Act took effect, officially uniting the colonies of the Province of Canada (which was split into Ontario and Quebec), New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a single Dominion under the name of Canada. This historic act laid the foundation for a new nation within the British Empire, with its own parliamentary government and constitution. Though Canada remained under the sovereignty of the British Crown, the act marked the beginning of its transition to full independence.
The British North America Act, passed by the British Parliament, created a federal structure for the newly formed country, establishing a system of governance with powers divided between the federal and provincial governments. Ottawa was named the capital of Canada, and Sir John A. Macdonald became the country's first prime minister. The act not only unified the original provinces but also created a framework that would allow other regions—such as Manitoba, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island—to join in the years that followed.
Although Canada remained part of the British Commonwealth and did not achieve full legislative independence until the Statute of Westminster in 1931 (and full constitutional autonomy in 1982), July 1, 1867, marked the symbolic birth of a Canadian identity. The celebration of this day, originally known as Dominion Day, evolved into what is now Canada Day, a nationwide holiday celebrating Canadian heritage, diversity, and progress.
Canada's nationhood developed gradually over the next century. The patriation of the Constitution in 1982, along with the creation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, completed the country’s legislative independence. What began as a dominion under British rule has grown into a sovereign and multicultural nation, known globally for its commitment to democracy, human rights, and cultural inclusivity. July 1 remains a moment of pride and reflection for Canadians, honoring the country's complex and evolving journey toward full nationhood.