Westphalian

Westphalian refers to Westphalia, a region in the northwestern part of Germany. The term is used as an adjective for things related to the region and as a demonym for its inhabitants. In contemporary terms, Westphalia largely corresponds to western and central areas of the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, and is associated with major cities such as Münster and Osnabrück, as well as Bielefeld, Hamm, and parts of the Ruhr area. The region also includes the hilly Sauerland area. Westphalia is culturally and linguistically diverse, with Westphalian dialects forming part of Low German (Plattdeutsch), including East Westphalian varieties.

Historically, Westphalia was a political region within the Holy Roman Empire and later became part of Prussia. Its name became widely known in international affairs through the Peace of Westphalia, signed in 1648 in Münster and Osnabrück. The treaty ended the Thirty Years' War and contributed to the development of the modern state system and the concept of state sovereignty.

In modern usage, “Westphalian” can refer to people from the region, local dialects, and cultural traditions. The term also appears in academic contexts when discussing regional history, law, and international relations. Westphalian identity is expressed through local festivals, architecture, cuisine, and educational and cultural institutions in the broader North Rhine-Westphalia area.