The
province of Quebec in eastern Canada is known for its French-speaking culture
and rich history. It is the largest Canadian province in terms of land area and
the second most populous, after Ontario.
French is the official language and the main language spoken in the province. Quebec is bordered by Ontario to the west,
Newfoundland and
Labrador to the northeast, New Brunswick to the southeast, and the
United States
to the south. Quebec City, the provincial capital, is known for its historic
architecture and European charm.
The name Québec comes from an Algonquin word meaning "narrow passage". The name originally referred to the area around Quebec City where the Saint Lawrence River narrows to a cliff-lined gap. French explorer Samuel de Champlain chose the name Québec in 1608 for the colonial outpost he would use as the administrative seat for New France.
The province has a wide variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers and lakes, with the Saint Lawrence River being one of its most important geographical landmarks. The province is known for its distinct seasons, with harsh winters and warmer summers.
Quebec's economy is diversified, with important sectors such as aerospace, information and communication technologies, biotechnology and the pharmaceutical industry. The province's natural resources, such as timber and hydropower, also play a crucial role.
