Canton

A canton is an administrative division used in several countries and historical contexts to designate a subdivision within a larger political unit. The precise powers and organization of cantons vary by country, but they are typically smaller than states or provinces and may have their own local governments.

In Switzerland, cantons are the 26 member states of the Swiss Confederation. Each canton has its own constitution, legislature, government, and judiciary, and retains substantial sovereignty over areas such as education, health care, welfare, policing, and taxation. Cantons elect representatives to the federal level and cooperate with the federal government under the Swiss federal constitution. They vary widely in population, area, and degree of autonomy.

In France, cantons are electoral districts within departments used to elect representatives to departmental councils. They do not themselves possess executive powers, and their borders were redrawn in a 2015 reform to reduce fragmentation and improve representation.

The term is also used in other contexts. Historically, Canton has been the English name for Guangzhou, a major city in Guangdong Province, China, and the associated Cantonese language, though these uses are not related to the Swiss system of cantons.

Etymology: The word canton derives from Romance languages such as French canton or Italian cantone, from a root meaning corner or district.