Why is the canoe often seen as an important Canadian symbol?

Answer 1

Before I answer that question, there is something that you should be aware of. Canada is the second largest country in the world. More importantly, it contains about one third od all the freshwater in the world.

Answer 2

Umm, the First Peoples introduced the canoe to the French trappers and traders, who used them as means of transportation through the wilderness via the many lakes and rivers that traverse Canada. I guess it could be seen as an important Canadian symbol as it allowed for the trappers to map out the interior of Canada, bring back many goods(furs) to the east and Europe, and until the introduction of the Horse or perhaps even the steam engine, the fastest way to travel across the country.

Answer 3

It played an important part in the fur trade that developed with the French.