Italian Canadians facts for kids
|
|
|---|---|
  |
|
| Total population | |
| 1,587,970 (total population) 236,635 (by birth) 1,351,335 (by ancestry) 2016 Census 4.6% of Canada's population. |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Greater Toronto Area, Hamilton, Niagara Region, London, Guelph, Windsor, Ottawa–Gatineau, Barrie, Sault Ste. Marie, Greater Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Greater Montreal, Greater Vancouver | |
| Languages | |
| Religion | |
| Roman Catholicism, Protestantism | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Italians, Italian Americans, Italian Argentines, Italian Brazilians, Italian Mexicans, Italian South Africans, Italian Australians, British Italian, Sicilian Americans, Corsican Americans |
Italian Canadians are people in Canada who have Italian family roots. This includes people born in Italy who moved to Canada, and also Canadians whose parents or grandparents came from Italy.
About 1.5 million people in Canada have Italian heritage. This makes them one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. They have greatly helped shape Canada's culture, food, and economy.
Contents
Where Do Italian Canadians Live?
Most Italian Canadians live in big cities. The Greater Toronto Area has the largest number. Other important areas include Montreal, Vancouver, and cities in Ontario like Hamilton and Windsor.
Italian Neighbourhoods
In many cities, Italian Canadians created special neighbourhoods. These are often called "Little Italy." They are known for Italian restaurants, bakeries, and shops. These areas are important places for the community to gather and celebrate their heritage.
What Languages Do They Speak?
Many Italian Canadians speak English or French, which are Canada's official languages. However, many also speak Italian. Some older generations might speak different Italian dialects, like Neapolitan or Sicilian.
What Are Their Traditions?
Italian Canadians often keep many traditions from Italy. These include:
- Food: Italian food is very popular in Canada. Many families still make traditional dishes like pasta, pizza, and pastries.
- Religion: Most Italian Canadians are Roman Catholic. Churches play a big role in their communities.
- Festivals: They celebrate many Italian holidays and festivals. These often include parades, music, and delicious food.
How Did Italians Come to Canada?
Italians started coming to Canada in large numbers in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many came looking for work and a better life.
Early Immigration Waves
The first big wave of Italian immigrants arrived before World War I. Many of them worked on railways, in mines, or in construction. They often sent money back to their families in Italy.
After World War II
Another large group of Italians came to Canada after World War II. Italy was rebuilding after the war, and many people sought new opportunities. These immigrants helped build Canada's cities and industries. They also brought their rich culture with them.
What Contributions Have They Made?
Italian Canadians have made many important contributions to Canada.
Building Canada's Economy
Many Italian immigrants were skilled workers. They helped build roads, bridges, and buildings across Canada. Their hard work was very important for the country's growth.
Culture and Arts
Italian Canadians have also enriched Canada's culture. They have contributed to music, art, fashion, and food. Many famous Canadian artists, musicians, and chefs have Italian heritage.
Politics and Community Leadership
Italian Canadians have also become leaders in politics and their communities. They work to represent their communities and help make Canada a better place for everyone.
Images for kids
-
Italian immigrants lay cobblestones on King Street in Toronto, 1903
-
A grocery store owned by an Italian family in Little Italy, Montreal, 1910
-
Sign of Mirador, a restaurant in Montreal owned by an Italian immigrant, 1948
See also
In Spanish: Inmigración italiana en Canadá para niños
