What is the Difference Between Province and Territory?

The main difference between a province and a territory in Canada lies in their constitutional status and the degree of control over their own governance. Here are the key differences:

1. Constitutional Status: Provinces receive their power and authority from the Constitution Act, 1867, while territories are federal territories whose governments are creatures of statute with powers delegated to them by the Parliament of Canada.
2. Autonomy and Sovereignty: Provinces have a higher degree of autonomy and sovereignty, while territories are more tightly controlled by the federal government.
3. Population and Land Mass: Territories account for approximately 40% of Canada's landmass but represent only about 3% of the Canadian population.
4. Governance: Provinces have their own representative of the Canadian Crown, the lieutenant governor, while territories have a commissioner that represents the federal government.
5. Constitutional Amendments: Territories are not included in the amending formula used to change Canada's constitution, whereas only the Parliament of Canada and the provinces have this authority.

In summary, provinces have more control over their own governance and are considered co-sovereign within certain areas based on the divisions of 1867, while territories have their authorities and responsibilities devolved directly from the federal level.

Comparative Table: Province vs Territory

The main difference between a Canadian province and a territory lies in the source of their power and authority, as well as their historical development. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:

In a nutshell, provinces have more autonomy and control over their own governance, while territories have their powers and responsibilities devolved directly from the federal government. Most provinces predate Canada and were part of the original formation of the country, while territories were added later on.