Canadian maritime history encompasses the development of the country's waterways and coastal regions, which have been vital for trade, transportation, and cultural exchange. Indigenous peoples, such as the First Nations, utilized canoes and other vessels for fishing and travel long before European contact. The arrival of European explorers in the 15th and 16th centuries marked the beginning of significant maritime activity, leading to the establishment of trade routes and settlements. Throughout the centuries, Canada’s maritime industry grew, with the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans serving as crucial links for commerce and immigration. The construction of major ports, like Halifax and Vancouver, facilitated international trade, while the Canadian Navy played a key role in national defense. Today, Canada continues to rely on its maritime resources for economic growth and cultural identity.