Edmonton

Fort Edmonton was established in 1795 as a trading post for the Hudson's Bay Company. Located along the North Saskatchewan River, it served as a key location for trade with indigenous peoples. It played a central role in the fur trade throughout the 19th century, becoming a pivotal part of the economic and cultural development of the area that would eventually become the city of Edmonton.

On October 8, 1904, Edmonton officially became a city. It had been incorporated as a town in 1892, and over the following years experienced significant growth. The transition to city status marked Edmonton's growing importance in the province of Alberta, setting the stage for its future development as the provincial capital in 1905, when Alberta was established as a province.

The discovery of oil near Leduc, Alberta, on February 13, 1947, marked a turning point in Alberta's history and economic development. Located just south of Edmonton, the Leduc No. 1 well's success initiated an oil boom, transforming Edmonton into a major hub for the oil industry. This discovery attracted investment, increased population, and marked Alberta as a significant player in the global oil industry.

West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America and one of the largest in the world, opened on July 1, 1978. It features over 800 stores, a water park, ice rink, and other entertainment venues. The mall revolutionized shopping and leisure, making it a significant tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors annually. Its size and scope symbolize Edmonton's status as an economic center.

On July 31, 1987, known as Black Friday, a powerful tornado swept through Edmonton, leaving a path of destruction. This tornado was part of a series of severe weather events in the region and is one of Canada's deadliest, killing 27 people and injuring hundreds. It caused massive damage, and the response and rebuilding efforts showcased the community's resilience. It remains a significant event in Edmonton's history.

In 2004, Edmonton celebrated its 100th anniversary as a city with a series of events and celebrations throughout the year. The centennial marked a century of growth, development, and cultural evolution as Edmonton transformed from a modest town into a bustling metropolitan center. The celebrations included community events, historical exhibits, and public art installations reflecting on the city's rich history and future aspirations.

The groundbreaking ceremony for Rogers Place, the new arena in downtown Edmonton, took place on April 10, 2014. The arena, which became the new home for the Edmonton Oilers, was a central part of revitalizing downtown Edmonton and represented a significant investment in the city's infrastructure. Opening in 2016, Rogers Place is designed to host concerts, sports, and other large events, contributing to Edmonton's cultural and economic landscape.

The Royal Alberta Museum, one of Canada's leading museums for human and natural history, opened its new location in Edmonton's arts district on May 25, 2018. The modern facility hosts diverse exhibits, ranging from the natural sciences to the cultural history of Alberta. The museum enhances Edmonton's cultural offerings, serving as an educational hub and a tourist attraction drawing visitors interested in the history and ecology of Alberta.

In August 2021, Edmonton was designated a UNESCO City of Design, recognizing the city's commitment to innovation, creativity, and sustainable development in urban planning and design. This designation places Edmonton in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, highlighting its efforts to integrate culture and craft into the city's progressive planning initiatives. The recognition promotes further cultural exchanges and economic opportunities.

Edmonton was chosen to host the IIHF World Junior Championship for 2022-2023. This prestigious event in junior ice hockey showcases global talent and brings international attention to the city. Hosting the World Juniors is a testament to Edmonton's rich hockey culture and its capacity to host large-scale sports events, enhancing the city's reputation as a premier destination for sports and tourism.