Grade 4 Social Studies (Diversity and Development)

The history and images of Alberta's architecture illustrates the development and diversity of the province.

Alberta's growth is demonstrated by the buildings that were constructed throughout the 20th century. The buildings reflected what was available for those who first inhabited the plains before Alberta came into being. Early First Nations people contracted tipis.

As materials like lumber, glass, bricks, sandstone, concrete, iron, and steel became more readily available, the type of buildings that appearing Alberta changed. Developments in transportation allowed many people to attain these materials in urban as well as rural centres.

The many diverse groups that arrived in Alberta brought with them their culture, art, and architecture. The diversity of Alberta's people is reflected in the building that they have built for themselves.