Germany

Germany, officially the Federal Republic of Germany, is a country in Central Europe. It borders Denmark to the north; Poland and the Czech Republic to the east; Austria and Switzerland to the south; France, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands to the west. It has coastlines of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The capital and largest city is Berlin; other major centers include Hamburg, Munich, Cologne and Frankfurt. The landscape ranges from the North German Plain to the Bavarian Alps.

Germany's modern state arose from unification in 1871, the collapse of the German Empire in 1918, the Nazi era (1933–1945), division into West and East Germany after World War II, and reunification in 1990. It is a federal parliamentary republic with a ceremonial president and a chancellor as head of government. The Bundestag is elected; Bundesrat represents the states. The Basic Law is the constitution.

The country has 16 federal states (Länder). The economy is the largest in Europe and one of the largest worldwide, characterized by a highly developed industrial base and a strong export sector, including automobiles, machinery, and chemical products. It follows a social market economy and a policy of renewable energy expansion. It is a member of the European Union and NATO, and participates in international organizations.

Germany has a rich cultural heritage in philosophy, music, literature, and science. Notable figures include Bach, Beethoven, Kant, Goethe, and Einstein. The country has a high standard of living, a substantial welfare system, and a well-regarded education system, including a dual vocational training program.

Demographics include around 83 million residents, with large urban populations and significant immigrant communities. German is the official language. The country is active in global diplomacy and security, and plays a leading role in European and international affairs.