"Northern Ontario is vast, almost twice the size of France, or seven- eighths of the land area of the province, and yet the region is not well known in the rest of the country and even in Southern Ontario. The history of this area is dramatic. This lonely land was not always tranquil for it was fought over by French and English adventurers anxious to obtain control of the fur trade, and the first commando raid in the country's early story took place at Moose Factory on James Bay. More conflict took place during the War of 1812 on this northern land and its Great Lakes. Most know Northern Ontario through advertisements that promote it as a top wilderness travel destination but the land north of North Bay is a great treasure house of natural resources. Forest products, hydroelectricity and minerals from base metals, gold and silver; even diamonds enrich the Canadian economy from the northern portion of the province. Mineral discoveries continue to be made and one, the Ring of Fire, will likely be one of the greatest bonanzas ever in the annals of Canadian mining. Those who live in Northern Ontario have a strong sense of identity and this is reinforced by the fact that the region is economically, geographically and socially vastly different by the southern part of the province. Periodically the sense of alienation from the more populous part of the province felt by some northerners has led to calls for secession and the formation of a separate political entity. Discover the story of Northern Ontario, its scenic beauty, natural wealth and the opportunities offered there for travel, exploration and development as the unknown country awakes."--Pub. desc.