Lake Ontario, Toronto, during winter  Dec. 7, 2024

Today, we"re taking a look at the Great Lakes—Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, Lake Huron and Lake Erie—the five lakes that span the Canada–United States border. Together, they hold 21% of the world"s fresh surface water. Of these, Lake Ontario, standing between the states of Ontaio and New York, has the smallest surface area and was named "Ontario" by Europeans in 1641. Covering approximately 18,960 square kilometres, it has been an important waterway for centuries. By the 18th century, the lake had become a strategic hub for the fur trade, particularly during the French and Indian War and later the War of 1812. Today, historic forts like Fort Niagara and Fort Henry stand as reminders of these turbulent times near the lake.

© Brendan Riley/Shutterstock

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