In 1873, the formation of the North-West Mounted Police, later known as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, was established to maintain law and order in Canada's western territories. This force played a crucial role in the development of Canadian society, promoting peace and governance in a rapidly changing region. The RCMP's legacy continues to influence Canadian identity and its relationship with Indigenous peoples.

The formation of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police became iconic in Canadian literature, inspiring ballads and poems about law and wilderness. Poets like Robert Service captured the spirit of frontier life, exploring themes of national identity and the rugged landscape.