Netherlands

The Dutch United Provinces declared their independence from Spain in 1579; during the 17th century, they became a leading seafaring and commercial power, with settlements and colonies around the world. After a 20-year French occupation, a Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed in 1815. In 1830 Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom. The Netherlands remained neutral in World War I, but suffered invasion and occupation by Germany in World War II. A modern, industrialized nation, the Netherlands is also a large exporter of agricultural products. The country was a founding member of NATO and the EEC (now the EU), and participated in the introduction of the euro in 1999.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 16,570,613 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Dutchman(men), Dutchwoman(women)

Nationality (Adjective): Dutch

Official Language(s): Dutch, Frisian

Major Languages Spoken: Dutch, Vlaams, Frisian

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Kingdom of the Netherlands

Country Name (short form): Netherlands

Country Name (local long form): Koninkrijk der Nederlanden

Country Name (local short form): Nederland

Name of Capital: Amsterdam

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Netherlands: Belgium, Germany

Land Area: 33883 sq km

Water Area: 7643 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey

Total Land Boundry: 1,027 km

Coastline: 451 km

National Holiday: Queen's Day (Birthday of Queen-Mother JULIANA and accession to the throne of her oldest daughter BEATRIX), 30 April (1909 and 1980)

International Phone Code: 31

Currency Code: euro (EUR)

Internet Country Code: .nl

US Embassy Location: Lange Voorhout 102, 2514 EJ, The Hague

US Embassy Mailing Address: PSC 71, Box 1000, APO AE 09715