Why is British Columbia Called That Way?
Have you ever wondered about the origin of the name 'British Columbia'? This intriguing name has a rich history deeply rooted in geography, exploration, and colonial administration. In this article, we will delve into the story behind this distinctive name and explore its evolution over time.
The Name and Its Origins
The name 'British Columbia' is a fascinating blend of historical and geographical elements. The word 'British' is a clear indicator of British influence and governance, while 'Columbia' pays homage to a wider historical context.
Columbia: A Synonym for the Americas
'Columbia' is a synonym for the Americas that was widely used in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a term with significant cultural and geographical reach. Similar to how 'DC' stands for 'District of Columbia' in the US capital, the 'C' in the Canadian province's name represents a broader reference. This term gained popularity in several places, including the United States, where it was often used in honor of the revolutionary spirit and nation-building efforts.
From Columbia River to New Caledonia
The southern part of the area now known as British Columbia was originally named after the Columbia River. The central region was poignantly named 'New Caledonia' by explorer Simon Fraser, a nod to the island of New Caledonia in the Pacific Ocean.
Affected by International Boundaries
Until 1846, the area was divided between British and American control, with the chief dispute lying in the lands draining into the Columbia River. This region was initially named the 'Columbia District' by the Hudson’s Bay Company, in honor of the ship Columbia Rediviva which had first mapped and claimed the area.
The Treaty of 1846 and Beyond
In 1846, the Treaty of Washington defined the new international boundary, extending it to the 49th Parallel. This meant that the British areas south of the Columbia River (the Columbia District) and the region north of the Columbia River (New Caledonia) were now firmly under British control. The Hudson’s Bay Company continued to administer these areas until the 1850s.
Discovering Gold and Administrative Changes
The discovery of gold in the Fraser Canyon in 1856 led to significant population growth and economic activity. This discovery prompted the British Colonial Office to assert greater control over the area as a Crown Colony. In this context, the name 'British Columbia' was proposed to better reflect the British administration.
Resolving Historical Confusion
Queen Victoria's decision to adopt the name 'British Columbia' in 1858 was made to avoid confusion with Colombia in South America and the New Caledonia in the Pacific. At this time, 'New Caledonia' had a delicate history in Scotland, as it was the name of a failed colonial venture. Changing the name to 'British Columbia' served a practical purpose as well as a political one, reinforcing the colony's ties to the British Empire.
In conclusion, the name 'British Columbia' represents a complex interplay of historical events, geographical landmarks, and administrative decisions. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of exploration, colonization, and the shaping of modern Canada.