Overview of Germany

Profile

Germany is a parliamentary federal state comprising 16 federal states, wielding major influence as a political, economic, and cultural hub centered on the capital Berlin. With nominal GDP ranking third globally, the country maintains international competitiveness in high-value-added manufacturing including automobiles, machinery, chemicals, and electronics. Terrain ranges from North Sea and Baltic Sea coastal plains to Alpine foothills, featuring diverse landscapes, while advanced environmental technology and renewable energy policies are promoted. Quality vocational education supported by craftsman systems and dual training, comprehensive social security, and urban landscapes where historic streetscapes coexist with modern design attract tourists.

Official name: Federal Republic of Germany
Common name: Germany
Numeric code: 276
Alpha-3 code: DEU
Alpha-2 code: DE
Population: Approximately 84 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 240 people/km²
Primary languages: German
Major religions: Christianity (Catholic and Evangelical), Islam
National anthem: Deutschlandlied (Song of Germany)
Calling code: +49
Internet TLD: .de

History

From the Holy Roman Empire through the German Empire and East-West division to reunification in 1990. Serves as a driving force for European integration to the present day.

The medieval Holy Roman Empire was divided into numerous territories, unifying under Prussian leadership in the late 19th century. After two world wars and the Weimar Republic, catastrophe followed under Nazi rule. In 1949, East and West Germany were established; the West became a driving force for economic recovery and European Community creation, while the East adopted a socialist system. Triggered by the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall, reunification occurred on October 3, 1990. Since then, promotion of EU expansion, euro adoption, diplomacy coordinated with NATO, and emphasis on environment, human rights, and multilateralism have developed contemporary Germany.

Geography & climate

Diverse topography weaving northern flat lowlands, central low mountain ranges, and southern Alpine foothills and highlands. Encompasses major European river basins including Rhine, Elbe, and Danube.

Transitional from temperate oceanic to temperate continental

Area: Europe / 357386 km²
Capital: Berlin
Largest city: Berlin
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Constance, Müritz, Chiemsee
Bordering countries: Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Netherlands

Natural resources

Coal, lignite, natural gas, iron ore, potash, copper, nickel, timber, water resources, wind power, farmland, rock salt, limestone, uranium, renewable energy potential

Politics

Government: Federal parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 4.4 trillion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 5.6 trillion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: German

Time zone: Central European Time, Central European Summer Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Germans, Turkish, Polish, Russian, Italian, Kurdish, Arab, Sorbian, Frisian

Life expectancy

Approximately 81.2 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Football, Handball, Ice hockey, Athletics, Basketball, Cycling, Skiing, Motorsports