When you think of Ottawa, Ontario, images of Parliament Hill or the Rideau Canal may come to mind. But did you know that Ottawa has an absolutely fascinating history? Whether you’re planning a visit or just curious, follow the timeline below to discover the key events in the history of Canada’s dynamic capital.
Indigenous Peoples
Ottawa is located in the traditional Anishinàbeg Algonquin territory. The Ottawa Valley became habitable around 8,000 BCE, following the natural draining of the Champlain Sea. Archaeological discoveries, such as arrowheads, tools, and pottery, indicate that the earliest evidence of human habitation in the region dates back to 6,500 BCE.
The Algonquin people lived along the banks of the Ottawa River for thousands of years, using its waters as a vital trade and travel route. The convergence of three major rivers within Ottawa further enhanced the region’s importance for exchange and transportation, particularly for the fur trade. The name “Ottawa” itself comes from the Algonquin word “adàwe”, meaning “to trade.” The Algonquin people’s legacy remains a living part of the city today, shaping its culture and values.
European Settlement
In 1610, Etienne Brûlé was the first European to navigate the Ottawa River, followed by Samuel de Champlain in 1613. Then came Irish, British, French, and Scottish settlers who launched the local timber trade in the early 1800s.
In 1826, the construction of the Rideau Canal as a military defence and transportation route led to the creation of a small but bustling community called Bytown. Named after Lieutenant-Colonel John By, the British engineer who oversaw the canal’s construction, Bytown attracted contractors, labourers and a small community of merchants, tradesmen and professionals.
In the 1830s the timber trade became the principal economic activity in the region and Bytown grew rapidly, transforming from a frontier town into a thriving settlement. The population had reached 1,000 by the time the Rideau Canal was completed in 1832.
In 1855, Bytown was officially renamed Ottawa and incorporated as a city.
Ottawa Becomes Canada’s Capital
Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the new capital of Canada in 1857. Did you know that the official capital location moved six times before landing permanently in the city of Ottawa?
Before Ottawa was selected, the capital of the Province of Canada (which combined Upper and Lower Canada, now Ontario and Quebec) had moved multiple times—between Kingston, Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec City—due to political instability, regional rivalry, and public unrest.
The pre-Confederation colonies of Upper and Lower Canada could not agree on a permanent site for the capital, and in 1857, Queen Victoria was asked to settle the debate once and for all. Ten years later, in 1867, Ottawa officially became the capital of the newly formed Dominion of Canada.
So why Ottawa?
- It was strategically located between English-speaking Toronto and French-speaking Montreal, making the choice an important political compromise.
- Ottawa’s location along the Ottawa River plus the Rideau Canal provided logistical advantages for transportation and defense.
- Ottawa was farther from the U.S. border than other major cities, surrounded by dense forest and situated on a cliff. This made it easier to defend against a potential invasion.
- Ottawa’s small size was also thought to make it less prone to politically motivated violence, as had happened in the previous Canadian capitals.
- The government already owned the land that eventually became Parliament Hill, which it considered an ideal location for the Parliament buildings.
The royal decree thrust Ottawa into the spotlight and began the city’s transformation into the political and cultural heart of Canada.
20th Century Growth
The 20th century brought major changes. During both World Wars, Ottawa played a central role in military planning and production. It also became a hub for government expansion, scientific innovation, and urban development.
The Centre Block of the Parliament buildings was destroyed by fire on February 3, 1916, resulting in the destruction of the building and significant damage to surrounding structures. The iconic Peace Tower was built after the fire to replace the previous building. In the aftermath, a major reconstruction effort was initiated, leading to the completion of the new Centre Block in 1927. The fire reshaped Parliament Hill and marked a significant chapter in the evolution of Canada’s architectural heritage.
Between the 1960s and 1980s, Ottawa experienced significant growth in the high-tech industry and the city was nicknamed Silicon Valley North. The high-tech sector remains a key driver of the city’s economy, expanding into emerging areas such as clean technology.
Ottawa Today
Today, Ottawa is a vibrant, bilingual city known for its festivals, beautiful green spaces, and historical interest. From Winterlude on the frozen Rideau Canal to Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill, the city continues to embrace its rich past while looking toward the future.
History buffs will enjoy exploring Ottawa’s history at the Bytown Museum, with its diverse collection of over 7,000 artifacts, stone vaults and immersive exhibits.
Located in Gatineau, Quebec (just across the Ottawa River from Parliament Hill) The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s most-visited museum. The museum traces the history of Canada and features several major exhibitions, including Indigenous art, an amazing collection of totem poles and interactive exhibits for young visitors.