What Canada was ALMOST named

“Canada” likely comes from the word “kanata” — a Huron-Iroquois word meaning “village” or “settlement.” In 1535, French explorer Jacques Cartier used the word “Canada” to describe not just the village of Stadacona, but the entire area controlled by Aboriginal chief Donnacona.

But this country was not always known as Canada. Leading up to the dominion, (that’s when the provinces of Canada, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick joined forces), there were a number of funny, weird and interesting suggestions that were submitted.

For instance, did you know that on July 1, we could have been saying Happy Efisga Day instead of Happy Canada Day? Or that we could have been called Hochelaganers instead of Canadians?

Luckily, Thomas D’Arcy McGee, one of the fathers of confederation, weighed into the debate. Because if it wasn’t for his wit and reason — we would be known by some other name.

Take a peek at names that didn’t make the cut (and what you may have been called, but we don’t know for sure). The list is fascinating, but if anything, it will make you proud to be Canadian.

With files from CBC News.