Montreal is a city in the country of Canada. A long time ago, many different Indigenous groups, like the Mohawk and the Algonquin, lived in the area that is now Montreal. They used the land for hunting, fishing, and trading with other Indigenous groups.
In the 16th century, European explorers came to the area. French explorer Jacques Cartier arrived in 1535 and claimed the land for France. The French started building settlements and trading fur with Indigenous groups. The area was named Ville-Marie in 1642.
Montreal became an important city in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a major trading hub for furs and goods between Europe and North America. Many important buildings, like the Notre-Dame Basilica, were built during this time.
In the 20th century, Montreal continued to grow and change. It became a major industrial and cultural center. In 1967, the city hosted the World Expo, which brought people from all over the world to see the city and learn about different cultures. Montreal also hosted the Summer Olympics in 1976.
Today, Montreal is a diverse and vibrant city with a rich history. It is known for its architecture, food, and cultural festivals. The city is home to many different communities and languages, including French, English, and Indigenous languages.