Calgary, called "the gateway to the Canadian Rockies," was founded in 1875 by the North West Mounted Police at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers. Surrounding the city are fertile farmlands and, to the west, the rolling foothills of the Rockies. It is partially due to this lush land that ranching and grain farming have played such a large part in the development of the city. In fact, Calgary is a principal center for Canada's agribusinesses.

Calgary is also the major oil center in Canada. Since 1914, the petroleum industry has centered its activities here. Today more than 85 percent of Canada's oil and gas producers are headquartered in Calgary. As a result, Calgary has experienced a phenomenal growth rate. But the city has retained some of its earlier small town atmosphere, and Calgarians are still noted for their warmth and hospitality.

Site of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games, Calgary offers a broad array of pursuits for outdoors enthusiasts, ranging from numerous golf courses to hiking and whitewater rafting in its foothills and alpine environs. Cultural activities abound as well, and Calgary also provides its share of nightlife.