Niederlanden

Niederlanden, known in English as the Netherlands, is a country in Western Europe with several Caribbean territories. The Kingdom of the Netherlands consists of four countries: the European Netherlands and three Caribbean constituent countries—Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten; in addition, the Caribbean Netherlands comprises the special municipalities Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.

Geographically, the Netherlands borders Belgium to the south and Germany to the east, with a North Sea coastline to the north and west. Much of its land lies below sea level, protected by dikes and advanced water management. The capital is Amsterdam, while The Hague hosts the government and the International Court of Justice.

Politically, the Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The monarch's role is largely ceremonial; the prime minister is head of government. The States General, charged with legislation, comprises the Senate and the House of Representatives, while the cabinet holds executive power.

Economically, the country is highly developed and export-oriented. Rotterdam hosts one of the world’s largest ports, and Amsterdam is a major financial center. Key sectors include logistics, agriculture and horticulture, high-tech manufacturing, and services. The currency is the euro; the Netherlands is an EU member and part of the euro area.

Historically, the Netherlands rose as a major commercial and naval power in the 16th and 17th centuries, achieving independence from Spain in 1648. In the 19th and 20th centuries it became a constitutional monarchy with a broad welfare system and active international engagement.

Culture is known for art, design, and cycling; the country has a long tradition of trade and tolerance. Dutch is the official language; Frisian is recognized in Friesland. In the Caribbean territories, Dutch, Papiamento and English are common.