Cantons are administrative divisions within a country, often used to organize governance and local administration. They can vary in size and population, and their number and structure depend on the specific country. For example, in Switzerland, there are 26 cantons, each with its own constitution and government. In some countries, cantons may have significant autonomy, allowing them to make decisions on local matters such as education and transportation. This system helps accommodate regional differences and promotes local governance. Other countries, like France, also use a similar concept, though they may refer to these divisions as departments instead of cantons.