Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and is the fourth largest municipality in the country. It is the second largest municipality in Ontario and is part of Canada's largest metropolitan area, known as the National Capital Region. Ottawa lie on the banks of a major waterway, the Ottawa River, which is a rich source of economic profit for the city. Canada's National Capital Region, which encompasses Ottawa and neighboring Gatineau is estimated to have over 1.1 million inhabitants. A popular nickname for Ottawa is 'Bytown', its motto is 'Advance Ottawa'.

The people of Ottawa and its government are represented as a whole by a mayor. The members of the city council, however, govern the city, which have been elected by the people to represent a sub region within the city. The council's responsibility extends to the maintenance of public services such as paramedics, garbage, fire department, police department, water, transit, and so on.

Economically, the city's primary employer is the City government. High-tech industries are also growing popularity in Ottawa earning the nickname; "Silicone Valley of the North". The city is home to the Ottawa Senators, a major league professional sports team of the National Hockey League. Ottawa is also the home of the women's hockey team the Ottawa Senators (CWHL).