# Vancouver Island > island of British Columbia, Canada **Wikidata**: [Q170479](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q170479) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver_Island) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/vancouver-island ## Summary Vancouver Island is a large island located in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is situated off the southwestern coast of the mainland and is known for its diverse geography, including mountains, forests, and coastal areas. The island is home to a significant population and has historical and environmental importance within Canada. ## Key Facts - **Location**: Vancouver Island is part of British Columbia, Canada, and is situated in the Pacific Ocean. - **Population**: The island has a population of approximately 775,347 to 864,864 people. - **Coordinates**: The geographical coordinates of Vancouver Island are approximately 49.633333° N latitude and 125.7° W longitude. - **Aliases**: The island is also known as "Île de Vancouver" in French. - **Related Entities**: It is associated with the 1946 Vancouver Island earthquake, a significant natural disaster in Canadian history. - **Parent Island**: Vargas Island is a smaller island located near Vancouver Island. - **Sitelink Count**: Vancouver Island has 84 sitelinks, indicating its significance and recognition across various platforms. ## FAQs ### What is the geographical significance of Vancouver Island? Vancouver Island is the largest island on the west coast of North America, spanning approximately 32,134 square kilometers. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Vancouver Island Ranges, which are part of the Insular Mountains, and its extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean. ### What is the population of Vancouver Island? The population of Vancouver Island ranges between 775,347 and 864,864 people, making it one of the most populous islands in Canada. The island is home to several cities and towns, including Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. ### What notable events have occurred on Vancouver Island? One of the most significant events associated with Vancouver Island is the 1946 Vancouver Island earthquake. This natural disaster had a profound impact on the region and is a notable event in Canadian history. ### What is the relationship between Vancouver Island and Vargas Island? Vargas Island is a smaller island located near Vancouver Island. It is part of the same geographical region and shares similar environmental characteristics, including dense forests and coastal ecosystems. ## Why It Matters Vancouver Island plays a crucial role in the cultural, economic, and environmental landscape of British Columbia and Canada as a whole. Its strategic location in the Pacific Ocean makes it a key area for trade, tourism, and ecological conservation. The island's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife and plant species, contributing to Canada's biodiversity. Additionally, Vancouver Island is home to a significant population, including Indigenous communities, and has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the history and traditions of the region. ## Notable For - Being the largest island on the west coast of North America. - Hosting a diverse range of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, mountains, and coastal areas. - Being home to Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. - Experiencing the significant 1946 Vancouver Island earthquake. - Having a substantial population, contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of the region. ## Body ### Geography and Location Vancouver Island is situated off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Canada. It is the largest island on the west coast of North America, with an area of approximately 32,134 square kilometers. The island is characterized by its diverse geography, including the Vancouver Island Ranges, which are part of the Insular Mountains, and its extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean. The coordinates of Vancouver Island are approximately 49.633333° N latitude and 125.7° W longitude. ### Population and Demographics The population of Vancouver Island ranges between 775,347 and 864,864 people. The island is home to several cities and towns, including Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. The population is diverse, with a mix of urban and rural communities, and includes a significant number of Indigenous peoples. ### Historical Events One of the most notable events associated with Vancouver Island is the 1946 Vancouver Island earthquake. This natural disaster had a profound impact on the region and is a significant event in Canadian history. The earthquake caused widespread damage and highlighted the importance of seismic preparedness in the area. ### Related Islands Vargas Island is a smaller island located near Vancouver Island. It is part of the same geographical region and shares similar environmental characteristics, including dense forests and coastal ecosystems. Vargas Island is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. ### Environmental Significance Vancouver Island is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, which include temperate rainforests, mountains, and coastal areas. These ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife and plant species, contributing to Canada's biodiversity. The island's natural beauty and ecological importance make it a key area for conservation efforts. ### Cultural and Economic Importance Vancouver Island is home to a significant population, including Indigenous communities, and has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the history and traditions of the region. The island's strategic location in the Pacific Ocean makes it a key area for trade, tourism, and economic development. The cities and towns on the island, such as Victoria, are important cultural and economic centers in British Columbia. ### Sitelinks and Recognition Vancouver Island has 84 sitelinks, indicating its significance and recognition across various platforms. This extensive coverage highlights the island's importance in terms of cultural, historical, and environmental aspects. ## References 1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap) 2. Virtual International Authority File 3. Source 4. Canadian Geographical Names Database 5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 6. [Source](https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=Vancouver%20Island%20and%20Coast&DGUIDlist=2021S05005910&GENDERlist=1,2,3&STATISTIClist=1,4&HEADERlist=0) 7. GeoNames 8. GEOnet Names Server 9. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File 10. museum-digital 11. [Source](https://entities.oclc.org/worldcat/entity/E39PBJtrTx9Y84mmdwtxbrPqQq.html)