History of Nunavut in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: September 30, 2025

Nunavut is Canada's largest and northernmost territory, officially separated from the Northwest Territories on April 1, 1999. This separation occurred through the Nunavut Act and the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act, granting the Inuit self-government over this territory. The boundaries were established in 1993. The creation of Nunavut was a significant change to Canada's political map, marking the first major alteration since Newfoundland joined Confederation in 1949.

1999: Nunavut licensed to use NWT license plate design

In 1999, upon becoming a separate territory, Nunavut was licensed by the NWT to use the same license plate design.

2010: Special task force created to address alcohol-related problems

In 2010, a special task force was created to study and address the increasing alcohol-related problems in Nunavut, recommending the government ease alcohol restrictions.

March 2012: Nunavut adopts its own plate design

In March 2012, Nunavut adopted its own license plate design featuring the northern lights, a polar bear, and an inuksuk.

August 2012: Launch of Nunavut's new plate design

In August 2012, Nunavut launched its new license plate design, a rectangle that prominently features the northern lights, a polar bear and an inuksuk.