Province, in Roman times, was a conquered district ruled by an official from Rome. Later, independent countries that united to form a state frequently called themselves provinces. An example is the United Provinces of Holland. Still later, independent countries were divided into provinces.
In North America, the term province usually refers to one of the political divisions of Canada. There are 10 of these provinces. Each has its own local government. Canadian provinces perform much the same functions as American states.
See also Canada, Government of (Provincial and territorial governments) ; Charter .
