Yes, people certainly do live on Victoria Island. This large Arctic island is home to a permanent population, with residents distributed across a couple of distinct settlements.
Population and Settlements
Victoria Island supports a community of inhabitants, totaling a population of 2,168 people. This population is primarily concentrated in two main settlements. Each community plays a vital role in the life on the island, serving as hubs for activity and services in their respective regions.
The two main settlements are:
- Cambridge Bay: Located in Nunavut, this is the larger of the two communities.
- Ulukhaktok: Situated in the Northwest Territories, this is the other significant settlement.
The division of settlements between two Canadian territories highlights the vast geographic expanse of Victoria Island.
| Settlement Name | Territory | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Bay | Nunavut | Larger settlement |
| Ulukhaktok | Northwest Territories | Other major settlement |
Naming History of Victoria Island
Adding to its rich context, Victoria Island holds historical significance in its very name. It was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who served as the Canadian sovereign from 1867 to 1901. Interestingly, she first ascended to the throne as Queen in 1837, predating her role as Canadian sovereign. This naming reflects the historical ties and exploration efforts in the Canadian Arctic.
For more information on the geography and history of this significant landmass, you can explore resources like Victoria Island on Wikipedia.
