Canada is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy with government and legal systems descended from those of the colonial occupiers, England and France.
According to the website of the Governor General, the original role of governor of Canada began four hundred years ago in New France with Samuel de Champlain, who "was a governor in all but name."
Today the GG plays a vital symbolic role. Only in dire emergency would there be any power to make real decisions, and this would be limited to deciding how to pass the moment of crisis.
The main ceremonial duties are carried out from two residences: Rideau Hall in Ottawa, and the Citadelle at Quebec, which is located in the wall of the fortress. Canadians and foreign visitors are welcome to tour these working homes and the gardens that surround them.
Since 1947, the Governor General has served as the monarch's formal representative and Canada's Head of State at home and abroad. After a bill passes parliament and before it becomes law, the governor general must sign it.
Following an election, it is incumbent on the governor general to ask the head of the party with the most seats to form a government. It is well understood that these traditional constitutional duties carry no political clout.
The Governor General also acts as the head of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and has the pleasing task of recognizing and rewarding excellence in fields from physical bravery to the arts. These awards include the Order of Military Merit, the Governor General's Medals in the Arts and Sciences and the Order of Canada.
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