Library and Archives Canada's collection of more than 22 million photographs represents a vital visual resource documenting many facets of Canadian history and culture from the 1840s to the present day. A photograph conveys essential, often unique, information -- not only about a specific location, event, or person, but also about the subject's cultural context. This collection is rich in photographs from government projects and commercial concerns, private individuals and public figures, talented photojournalists and dedicated amateurs; consequently, it is unparalleled in its reflection of our nation's aspirations, opinions, achievements and motivating ideals.