World+Cultures

= =   Finland!!! Back ground Finland was a province and then a grand duchy under Sweden from the 12th to the 19th centuries, and an autonomous grand duchy of Russia after 1809. It won its complete independence in 1917. During World War II, it was able to successfully defend its freedom and resist invasions by the Soviet Union – albeit with some loss of territory. In the subsequent half century, the Finns made a remarkable transformation from a farm/forest economy to a diversified modern industrial economy; per capita income is now among the highest in Western Europe. A member of the European Union since 1995, Finland was the only Nordic state to join the euro system at its initiation in January 1999. Location Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia
 * =[[image:https://www.wikispaces.com/i/mime/32/image/bmp.png width="32" height="32" link="https://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com/file/view/35.bmp"]] [|35.bmp][[image:https://www.wikispaces.com/i/mime/32/image/bmp.png width="32" height="32" link="https://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com/file/view/35.bmp"]] [|35.bmp][[image:https://www.wikispaces.com/i/mime/32/image/bmp.png width="32" height="32" link="https://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com/file/view/untitled.bmp"]] [|untitled.bmp]=

Cool places

St. Olaf's Castle, Olavinlinna
Balanced on the edge of a tiny green island in a lake, this beautiful 500-year-old castle resembles something from a fairytale. Founded in 1475, it is comprised of the main castle as well as three towers and a bailey with a surrounding wall reinforced by towers. It is among Finland's most well-known tourist attractions. There is a very interesting orthodox museum in the castle grounds displaying Russian Orthodox artifacts from Finland and Russia. Turku is the oldest and most fascinating of Finland's medieval towns. Once the capital of Finland, this 750-year-old town has a fully restored 13th-century castle which is now a Viking museum. Its medieval Gothic cathedral is one of the most impressive in Finland. The Handicrafts Museum is located in the quaint old town where most of original medieval houses still stand. Make sure to visit the thirty workshops which represent different trades and that tell the story of the old professions. If you happen to visit near Christmas, Turku is regarded as Finland's Christmas City. In the old great square at 12 noon every Christmas Eve, a crowd of several thousand people gather to listen to the proclamation of a Christmas peace declaration which has resounded throughout Finland since the middle ages.

The Åland Islands
The Åland Islands are a unique, self-governing set of islands off the Finnish coast. With their own distinct culture, flag and postage stamps, they are dotted with medieval churches and old-world fishing villages and are particularly ideal for get-away-from-it all cycling, camping and cabin holidays.

Lapland
Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights, the Finnish province of Lapland is one of the world’s most wild and unspoiled regions, sparsely populated with truly friendly and welcoming people. Blessed with wide open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, magnificent lakes as clear as crystal, quietly babbling brooks and foaming rapids, this region offers the tourist the holiday of a lifetime. Lapland is also the home of Santa Claus. Pay a visit to Santapark – Santa’s theme park – and meet with Santa himself! 

Defenses F/A-18 fighter plane of Finland. This plane was used when Russia attacked Finland. This is also the planes that are known as the blue angels. This plane was designed for the united states marine core but is also used by many other nations. This plane went 3 miles in 3 minutes according to Finland’s defense ministry.


 * //Germany//**

GERMANY Germany had three natural boundaries the Baltic’s to the north the Rhine to the west and the Danube or Alps to the south only east there are boundaries From the 2nd century B.C. Germany has been at war with Rome the reign of Augustus Caesar sees a trial in strength between the empire and tribes When the Roman’s cross the Danube they quickly defeated the Germanic tribes their then for 5 years extended the empires borders But these borders were hard to control and hold on to they stopped at the Elbe their Armenian a German Chieftain leading an army defeated three roman legions

__PRUSSIA__ __AND NAPOLEONIC WARS__ Prussia (Northern Germany) consisted of the west Slavic tribes the ancestors of modern poles in the west w ANCIENT est and Baltic tribes and Lithuanians of the East In 1226 Prussia was conquered by Teutonic Knights a military religious cult who converted the Prussians to Christianity the knights were over thrown in 1454 the Prussia was divided in west Royal Prussia and East Ducal Prussia Ducal Prussia was incorporated into Poland providing it with a corridor to the Baltic Sea (Danzig corridor) Ducal Prussia became part of Poland The Pros tenant reformation in the 1500’s led to most Prussian’s becoming pros tenant well Poland was Roman Catholic In 1675 after an invasion by the Swedes made Poland surrender control of Ducal Prussia which became the Prussian Kingdom which was headed by Hohenzollern line Having come out of seven year’s of war Frederick with his great military success made Prussia a Major power in Europe Frederick William III was fired after giving up Prussian Territory to the French After Napoleon’s defeat in Russia he returned and defeated again and banished too a remote island in the Mediterranean 100 days later he came back and took control of France with the entire French army behind him British met Napoleon at waterloo a few miles away from Brussels this battle determined the fate of Europe 100,000’s were their and 125,000’s Prussian’s were coming against 250,000 French Napoleon was defeated and Banished to Mt. St Helen in the Atlantic Ocean __ WORLD WAR I __ Tension in Europe was growing and alliances were being formed all around Europe the two biggest ones were Germany and Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman’s army known as the triple Alliance or Central Powers and the Britain France and Russia formed the Triple Entente These alliances were building up their army and navies and more Germany had trained 8.5 million Russia 4.5 million France over 3.5 million Austria-Hungary 3 million Britain didn’t have many soldiers but its navy was bigger then all four nations combined All the rulers of Europe were related Queen Victoria of Great Britain Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany and Czar Nicholas of Russia were related On June 28th, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand next in line to the throne of Austria-Hungary went to the Bosnian capitol of Sarajevo review the Austrian Troops his wife Sophie accompanied him Austrian spies in Serbia warned him not to go because of Assassination attempt he ignored these and went any way as a motorcade made its way down Sarajevo’s main street guarded by 120 policemen on route six young Serbian men having hand guns and explosives provided by the Black Hand waited to try and kill the archduke The Archduke’s car passed two assassins with out incident then the car passed the third and he threw a bomb the bomb bounced off the car alerted to danger the car drove off to the town hall the assassins had missed their chance the archduke canceled his visit and return by a different route confused about the new plan the driver went down the wrong street into and ally the fourth assassin had come and shot the Archduke and his wife this had started WWI When WWI started the generals at the time introduced new types of warfare Total Warfare that didn’t just aim to destroy their military but to destroy their cities economy and people and Position warfare where you build up your defenses and make them so strong that break threw would be impossible especially with 18th century offensive tactics also the Ottoman empire came into the war on the Axis side and they were responsible for the lost at Gallipoli The Germans in 1915 the Germans introduced Biological warfare this was seen by the allies as inhumane for suffocating their men but the Germans thought it was humane and a less painful way to die the gas attacks also caused temporally blinded some people and killed few but gas makes also in 1915 air warfare was introduced first zeppelins were used to bomb London then Biplanes then dog fights came where Biplanes would shoot at each other In 1916 new vehicles such as the tank and motor cycle led to great victories on the western front In 1917 the Russians revolution over threw the Czar and the provisional government put in place still wanted to go to war but the Russian people eventually over threw that and put in the Bolshevik’s which then worked a peace treaty but the loss of Russia wasn’t a bad one because America had entered the wars on the allies side after Germany wanted and alliance with Mexico to attack America but the war still could be won with the veteran troops from the eastern front the western front had more men to fight but eventually Italy had defeated Austria and the Emperor abdicated power which ended the Austro-Hungarian empire then Britain had gone threw Palestine and destroyed the Ottoman empire by splitting up it’s empire between Britain and France and Germany low on Man power eventually signed and Armistice which led to their defeat

History seems to be repeating itself because Germany is climbing up the political ranks and is becoming head of the European Union. They are supporting strong political and military power and unity. The EU will become stronger and invade the Middle East soon. They will come in and it will look like a piece mission and than it will be very oblivious was the will do.

__Germany has Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation__ Germany has a powerful economy - the fifth largest in the world - and it grew in 2007 with 2.6% growth. Germany had high unemployment and this stronger growth led led to decreased unemployment in 2007. Modernizing eastern Gemany continues to be a costly process and has annual transfers from west to east of about $80 billion.The former government of Chancellor Gerhard Scroeder started reforms of labor market and welfare-related institutions. The current government of Chancellor Angela Merkel started other reform measures, like the gradual increase in the mandatory retirement age from 65 to 67 and measures to boost female participation in the labor market. Germany's aging population and high unemployment has pushed social security outlays to a level exceeding contributions. Corporate restructuring and growing capital markets are starting to help Germany meet the long-term goals of European economic integration and globalization. Germanys economy had some challenges in 2008 as the strong euro, high oil prices, tighter credit markets, and slowing growth abroad took their toll. //__ Germany __////__ in World War II~ __//

Field marshal Hindenburg was elected president in 1925. Adolf Hitler joined the German Workers or Nazi party in 1919. In the 1933 election he played on the emotions of the German people that Germany was a scapegoat for the Great War. He blamed losing the war on the leaders of the allies, on Russia, and on the Jews who controlled finances. Hitler promised a Third Reich that would last 1000 years. The German people were desperate and would accept any solution that would end their problems and restore Germanys’ former glory. Hitler finished second in the 1933 election after Hindenburg. Hindenburg made him chancellor. As chancellor he passed the enabling act that gave him dictatorial powers. He made himself the new leader or Furher of Germany. Then Hitler started to take Jews civil liberties and privileges away. When in 1939 Hitler started exterminating Jews he had also fixed German industry, restored the military, fixed unemployment, and taken over Austria and Czechoslovakia. This justified his actions and when people started realizing what Hitler was really doing he was already too powerful and killed those who spoke against him. He exterminated six million Jews, Poles, Gypsies, and other unwanted peoples. In September 1939 he invaded Poland causing Britain and France to declare war. France fell soon after to the Blitzkrieg. Then Germany invaded Russia. The United States entered in war in December 1941 after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Germany coundn’t support a war of such size and was pushed back by the Allied invasion of Europe on one front and Russia on the other. Hitler encouraged his army to fight to the death to defend Germany. In April 1945 Hitler killed himself as Russia overran Berlin.


 * //__ Legends and Myths  __//**

~Some Nazis thought that the German race who were Aryan had come from Atlantis.

~There are many legends of ghosts in local castles.

~There are also many myths about elves in German forests.


 * //__ Hot Spots  __//**

~ Neuschwanstein Castle is a big attraction.

~Oktoberfest, this is the place to be if you like beer.

~There are many concentration camps still open to visit.

~The Black Forest is another popular vacation spot. ~The city of Cologne.

 Ruler - Germany has a prime minister and a parliament. || ||
 * external image Reichstag_Berlin_Germany.jpg ||

Riechstag in Berlin Germany


 * [[image:http://www.iatwm.com/200507/CologneGermany/flora.jpg caption="external image flora.jpg"]] ||
 * external image flora.jpg ||

Cologne Germany


 * [[image:http://www.kidport.com/RefLib/worldgeography/Germany/Images/CountrySide.JPG caption="external image CountrySide.JPG"]] ||
 * external image CountrySide.JPG ||

German Countryside


 * [[image:http://www.earthdocumentary.com/germany/bavaria/neuschwanstein/01.jpg caption="external image 01.jpg"]] ||
 * external image 01.jpg ||

Castle in Bavarian Alps


 * [[image:http://www.w360travel.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/Bavarian_Alps_3.351223524.jpg width="805" height="580" caption="external image Bavarian_Alps_3.351223524.jpg"]] ||
 * external image Bavarian_Alps_3.351223524.jpg ||

More Bavarian Alps

Since it is mostly snow in Finland, there army troops only wear white armor. __ ANCIENT GERMANY __ Germany had three natural boundaries the Baltic’s to the north the Rhine to the west and the Danube or Alps to the south only east there are boundaries From the 2nd century B.C. Germany has been at war with Rome the reign of Augustus Caesar sees a trial in strength between the empire and tribes When the Roman’s cross the Danube they quickly defeated the Germanic tribes their then for 5 years extended the empires borders But these borders were hard to control and hold on to they stopped at the Elbe their Armenian a German Chieftain leading an army defeated three roman legions

__PRUSSIA__ __AND NAPOLEONIC WARS__ Prussia (Northern Germany) consisted of the west Slavic tribes the ancestors of modern poles in the west and Baltic tribes and Lithuanians of the East In 1226 Prussia was conquered by Teutonic Knights a military religious cult who converted the Prussians to Christianity the knights were over thrown in 1454 the Prussia was divided in west Royal Prussia and East Ducal Prussia Ducal Prussia was incorporated into Poland providing it with a corridor to the Baltic Sea (Danzig corridor) Ducal Prussia became part of Poland The Pros tenant reformation in the 1500’s led to most Prussian’s becoming pros tenant well Poland was Roman Catholic In 1675 after an invasion by the Swedes made Poland surrender control of Ducal Prussia which became the Prussian Kingdom which was headed by Hohenzollern line Having come out of seven year’s of war Frederick with his great military success made Prussia a Major power in Europe Frederick William III was fired after giving up Prussian Territory to the French After Napoleon’s defeat in Russia he returned and defeated again and banished too a remote island in the Mediterranean 100 days later he came back and took control of France with the entire French army behind him British met Napoleon at waterloo a few miles away from Brussels this battle determined the fate of Europe 100,000’s were their and 125,000’s Prussian’s were coming against 250,000 French Napoleon was defeated and Banished to Mt. St Helen in the Atlantic Ocean __ WORLD WAR I __ Tension in Europe was growing and alliances were being formed all around Europe the two biggest ones were Germany and Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman’s army known as the triple Alliance or Central Powers and the Britain France and Russia formed the Triple Entente These alliances were building up their army and navies and more Germany had trained 8.5 million Russia 4.5 million France over 3.5 million Austria-Hungary 3 million Britain didn’t have many soldiers but its navy was bigger then all four nations combined All the rulers of Europe were related Queen Victoria of Great Britain Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany and Czar Nicholas of Russia were related On June 28th, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand next in line to the throne of Austria-Hungary went to the Bosnian capitol of Sarajevo review the Austrian Troops his wife Sophie accompanied him Austrian spies in Serbia warned him not to go because of Assassination attempt he ignored these and went any way as a motorcade made its way down Sarajevo’s main street guarded by 120 policemen on route six young Serbian men having hand guns and explosives provided by the Black Hand waited to try and kill the archduke The Archduke’s car passed two assassins with out incident then the car passed the third and he threw a bomb the bomb bounced off the car alerted to danger the car drove off to the town hall the assassins had missed their chance the archduke canceled his visit and return by a different route confused about the new plan the driver went down the wrong street into and ally the fourth assassin had come and shot the Archduke and his wife this had started WWI When WWI started the generals at the time introduced new types of warfare Total Warfare that didn’t just aim to destroy their military but to destroy their cities economy and people and Position warfare where you build up your defenses and make them so strong that break threw would be impossible especially with 18th century offensive tactics also the Ottoman empire came into the war on the Axis side and they were responsible for the lost at Gallipoli The Germans in 1915 the Germans introduced Biological warfare this was seen by the allies as inhumane for suffocating their men but the Germans thought it was humane and a less painful way to die the gas attacks also caused temporally blinded some people and killed few but gas makes also in 1915 air warfare was introduced first zeppelins were used to bomb London then Biplanes then dog fights came where Biplanes would shoot at each other In 1916 new vehicles such as the tank and motor cycle led to great victories on the western front In 1917 the Russians revolution over threw the Czar and the provisional government put in place still wanted to go to war but the Russian people eventually over threw that and put in the Bolshevik’s which then worked a peace treaty but the loss of Russia wasn’t a bad one because America had entered the wars on the allies side after Germany wanted and alliance with Mexico to attack America but the war still could be won with the veteran troops from the eastern front the western front had more men to fight but eventually Italy had defeated Austria and the Emperor abdicated power which ended the Austro-Hungarian empire then Britain had gone threw Palestine and destroyed the Ottoman empire by splitting up it’s empire between Britain and France and Germany low on Man power eventually signed and Armistice which led to their defeat

History seems to be repeating itself because Germany is climbing up the political ranks and is becoming head of the European Union. They are supporting strong political and military power and unity. The EU will become stronger and invade the Middle East soon. They will come in and it will look like a piece mission and than it will be very oblivious was the will do.

__Germany has Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation__ Germany has a powerful economy - the fifth largest in the world - and it grew in 2007 with 2.6% growth. Germany had high unemployment and this stronger growth led led to decreased unemployment in 2007. Modernizing eastern Gemany continues to be a costly process and has annual transfers from west to east of about $80 billion.The former government of Chancellor Gerhard Scroeder started reforms of labor market and welfare-related institutions. The current government of Chancellor Angela Merkel started other reform measures, like the gradual increase in the mandatory retirement age from 65 to 67 and measures to boost female participation in the labor market. Germany's aging population and high unemployment has pushed social security outlays to a level exceeding contributions. Corporate restructuring and growing capital markets are starting to help Germany meet the long-term goals of European economic integration and globalization. Germanys economy had some challenges in 2008 as the strong euro, high oil prices, tighter credit markets, and slowing growth abroad took their toll. //__ Germany __////__ in World War II~ __//

Field marshal Hindenburg was elected president in 1925. Adolf Hitler joined the German Workers or Nazi party in 1919. In the 1933 election he played on the emotions of the German people that Germany was a scapegoat for the Great War. He blamed losing the war on the leaders of the allies, on Russia, and on the Jews who controlled finances. Hitler promised a Third Reich that would last 1000 years. The German people were desperate and would accept any solution that would end their problems and restore Germanys’ former glory. Hitler finished second in the 1933 election after Hindenburg. Hindenburg made him chancellor. As chancellor he passed the enabling act that gave him dictatorial powers. He made himself the new leader or Furher of Germany. Then Hitler started to take Jews civil liberties and privileges away. When in 1939 Hitler started exterminating Jews he had also fixed German industry, restored the military, fixed unemployment, and taken over Austria and Czechoslovakia. This justified his actions and when people started realizing what Hitler was really doing he was already too powerful and killed those who spoke against him. He exterminated six million Jews, Poles, Gypsies, and other unwanted peoples. In September 1939 he invaded Poland causing Britain and France to declare war. France fell soon after to the Blitzkrieg. Then Germany invaded Russia. The United States entered in war in December 1941 after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Germany coundn’t support a war of such size and was pushed back by the Allied invasion of Europe on one front and Russia on the other. Hitler encouraged his army to fight to the death to defend Germany. In April 1945 Hitler killed himself as Russia overran Berlin.

** ~Some Nazis thought that the German race who were Aryan had come from Atlantis.
 * //__ Legends and Myths  __//

~There are many legends of ghosts in local castles.

~There are also many myths about elves in German forests.

** ~ Neuschwanstein Castle is a big attraction. ~Oktoberfest, this is the place to be if you like beer.
 * //__ Hot Spots  __//

~There are many concentration camps still open to visit.

~The Black Forest is another popular vacation spot. ~The city of Cologne.

__**Ruler-**__Germany has a prime minister and parlament.

= = = = =CZECH REBULPIC= = = =*Location* Central Europe Surrounded by Germany in the northwest, Poland in the northeast, and Slovakia in the southeast. *Legends* A women of beauty and wisdom who possessed prophetic powers. Obsessions to find treasures underground. They believed they could make giants out of clay. *History* 1310-1346, John of Luxemburg ruled all of Czech. Charles IV was John’s son and took over after his father. *Hot Spots/Attractions* Five star highly recommended Brno Castle. Ceske Budejovice tower and more to come inside, 5star recommended. Zdar nad Sazavou. A small village/town, 5star recommended.  code code       =


 * Albania **** ! **

CHRONOLOGY OF ALBANIA 1912 - Declared independence from Ottoman Empire. 1939 - Italy conquered Albania. 1944 - Communist partisans took over the country. 1960 - Allied themselves with the USSR. 1978 - Allied themselves with China. 1990’s - Ended 46 years of xenophobic Communist rule. 1991 - Multi party democracy was established. 1997 - Collapse of pyramid schemes 2005 – General elections.

RULER Albania has a president named Alfred Moisiu.

GEOGRAPHY A little smaller than Maryland. Countries that surround Albania are Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Kosovo, Montenegro and Serbia Cool, wet winters; hot, dry summers. A lot of hills and mountains.

NATURAL RESOURCES Petroleum, natural gas, coal, bauxite, chromite, copper, iron ore, nickel, salt, timber and hydropower are natural resources of Albania.

20.1% of Albania is arable land, 4.21% is permanent crop while 75.69% is used for other things. These facts were of as 2005.

WARS There has been many wars in this country but there has only been four since the year 1945. Hot Spots In Albania people like going to Tirana Lake, Durres, Vlora, Shkodra, Elbasini, Korca, Saranda, and Gjirokastra. People learn about things and also get to swim at the beach. They also run by Tirana Lake. Russia

The Russian Empire was a natural successor to the Tsardom of Muscovy Though the empire was only officially proclaimed by Tsar Peter 1 following the Treaty of Nystad (1721), some historians would argue that it was truly born when Peter acceded to the throne in early 1682. Russia is the largest and most powerful of the states emergefrom former Soviet Union. The soviet Empire exist for 70 years. the russians wielded tremendous power both within the U.S.S.R and in the international spere. The Ru ssians have Extended the boundories of thier country to include a wide variety of non-Russian people. The Russian Czarsand the Bolsheviks who come to power in 1917 long history of Expansionist policies on important part of the Russian national idntity is that of leader of a large empire. Russia in fact have jet from moscow in Russia they have over 1000 major cities with 16 having a metro population of a more than one million.


 * [[image:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f3/Flag_of_Russia.svg/450px-Flag_of_Russia.svg.png width="450" height="300" caption="File:Flag of Russia.svg" link="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/Flag_of_Russia.svg"]] ||
 * File:Flag of Russia.svg ||

IRELAND;)


 * [[image:http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=100805&rendTypeId=4 width="542" height="381" caption="external image"]] ||
 * external image ||

relative location: the island of irelandislocated both in the northern and western hemisphere. locatedoff the northwestern coasline of europe, directly west of the united kingdome and bordered by the alantic ocean dublin(capital city)

history of the country: about 94% ofthe people of ireland are roman catholics, and less than 4% are protestants. most believe thatireland was first occupied by neolithic people. these people were responsible for the formation of many stone castles and monuments that are still there today. wars taht they were involved in include jacobite war, the war of the two kings, and also the grorious revolution. the glorious revolution. the glorious revolution was a direct consequence of the war of ireland. many of these wars were fough with other countries such as england, and the dutch lands. past presedents of ireland

|| ||


 * the streets of ireland ||

 ** Blarney **** stone: the blarney stone is set in the walls of blarney castle in the villige of blarney. Kissing the stone is supposed to bring the kisser the gift of persuasive eloquence (blarney).the castle was built in 1446 by Cormac Laidhiv McCarthy, the lord of Musketry. The origins of the Blarney Stone's magical properties aren't clear, but one legend says that an old woman cast a spell on the stone to reward a king who had saved her from drowning. Kissing the stone under the spell gave the king the ability to speak sweetly and convincingly.
 * Little known legacies/legends **

Cladagh ring: The meaning of the cladagh ring is a ring with ahnds holding a heart with a crown. Thehands represent friendship andthe togetherness, the heart itself signifies love and the crown ofthe ring means loyalty. **  Scotland! <span style="font-size: 130%; color: #1e1ef6; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 150%; color: #00ff2b; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;"> ** The History Of Scotland: **One of the oldest nations of Western Europe is Scotland. Gaels, Picts, Scots, Britons, Anglo-Saxons, and Norsemen all took part in the formation of this current country. Dalriada is one of the first colonies in western Scotland, which was founded in the early sixth century. In the early fifth century, Scotland had its first contact with Christianity as a main religion. The main and most important mountain ranges in Scotland include the British Isles and Ben Nevis. Before there were all these mountains and high elevation levels, this area used to be highly populated in the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution also caused the population to decrease, which makes Scotland have one of the lowest populations in all of Europe.

<span style="font-size: 150%; color: #13fb23; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;"> **Legends of Scotland:** A  good-natured, invisible brown elves or household goblins that live in farmhouses and other country dwellings in Scotland were known as Brownies. The Loch Ness Monster is a legendary animal which lives in the depths of Loch Ness, a lake in the Highlands of northern Scotland. The size of this monster, Nessie as it is fondly called, is 12-15 m (40-50 ft) and it has a long, snake-like neck. It is popularly believed to be female. Boobrie is a fabulous water-bird of Scottish Highland folk belief. The creature haunts lakes and salt well. The Fachan is a very ugly creature from the western highlands of Scotland. He is portrayed with one leg, one arm and one eye.
 * Loch Ness Monster **
 * <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"> <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">  [[image:http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:Y38wt8yxLbOzyM:http://www.mediabistro.com/unbeige/original/nessie.jpg width="232" height="151" caption="external image nessie.jpg" link="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.mediabistro.com/unbeige/original/nessie.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.mediabistro.com/unbeige/exhibitions/loch_ness_monster_spotted_in_new_york_88237.asp&usg=__RhzsmGRtqL-PLWPmmE02BXg-ajo=&h=525&w=713&sz=43&hl=en&start=9&tbnid=Y38wt8yxLbOzyM:&tbnh=103&tbnw=140&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dloch%2Bness%2Bmonster%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Dactive"]]                      ß  **


 * Brownie ** **<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">à  **<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">

<span style="font-size: 130%; color: #1ef149; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;"> **Hot Spot:** A hot spot in Scotland is the Edinburgh Castle because it dominates the city of Edinburgh like no other castle in Scotland. <span style="font-size: 130%; color: #1ef149; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;">For thousands of years, a lot of history sat at the top of the Edinburgh volcanic rock. It is a sight that you will have to see and visit to understand why it is so breathe taking, and to understand all the history that lies within. The Edinburgh Castle is unequalled to all of the British Isles. This is the second tourist attraction to Scotland because of it’s breathe taking skyline. Human habitation for this castle goes all the way back to the 9th century. Many of the other castles have only been around for as long as the 16th century. none //Optional:// a note about this edit for the page history log

//Optional:// tags for this page, separated by commas Tags: * [|location] Portions not contributed by visitors are Copyright 2009 Tangient LLC. Home > ... Loading... Home [|Skip Getting Started] Loading... ||  || Favorite Wikis ||   || Find a Wiki || ||
 * Cancel ||
 * Note** that the content you create on http://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com is licensed under the [|Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike 3.0 License]. Please only submit content that you write yourself or that is in the public domain. Learn more about our open content policy.
 * [|southwesten europe]
 * [|spain]
 * Help · About · Blog · Terms · Privacy · [|**Support**] · [|**Upgrade**]Contributions to http://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com are licensed under a [|Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike 3.0 License].
 * ||  || [[image:http://www.wikispaces.com/i/c.gif width="20" height="20" caption="Zablockisclass" link="home"]] Zablockisclass ||   || [[image:http://www.wikispaces.com/i/c.gif width="20" height="20" caption="UM-Dearborn Ed Tech Wiki" link="umdedtech:home"]] UM-Dearborn Ed Tech Wiki ||

Germany

GERMANY Germany had three natural boundaries the Baltic’s to the north the Rhine to the west and the Danube or Alps to the south only east there are boundaries From the 2nd century B.C. Germany has been at war with Rome the reign of Augustus Caesar sees a trial in strength between the empire and tribes When the Roman’s cross the Danube they quickly defeated the Germanic tribes their then for 5 years extended the empires borders But these borders were hard to control and hold on to they stopped at the Elbe their Armenian a German Chieftain leading an army defeated three roman legions

__PRUSSIA__ __AND NAPOLEONIC WARS__ Prussia (Northern Germany) consisted of the west Slavic tribes the ancestors of modern poles in the west w ANCIENT est and Baltic tribes and Lithuanians of the East In 1226 Prussia was conquered by Teutonic Knights a military religious cult who converted the Prussians to Christianity the knights were over thrown in 1454 the Prussia was divided in west Royal Prussia and East Ducal Prussia Ducal Prussia was incorporated into Poland providing it with a corridor to the Baltic Sea (Danzig corridor) Ducal Prussia became part of Poland The Pros tenant reformation in the 1500’s led to most Prussian’s becoming pros tenant well Poland was Roman Catholic In 1675 after an invasion by the Swedes made Poland surrender control of Ducal Prussia which became the Prussian Kingdom which was headed by Hohenzollern line Having come out of seven year’s of war Frederick with his great military success made Prussia a Major power in Europe Frederick William III was fired after giving up Prussian Territory to the French After Napoleon’s defeat in Russia he returned and defeated again and banished too a remote island in the Mediterranean 100 days later he came back and took control of France with the entire French army behind him British met Napoleon at waterloo a few miles away from Brussels this battle determined the fate of Europe 100,000’s were their and 125,000’s Prussian’s were coming against 250,000 French Napoleon was defeated and Banished to Mt. St Helen in the Atlantic Ocean __ WORLD WAR I __ Tension in Europe was growing and alliances were being formed all around Europe the two biggest ones were Germany and Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman’s army known as the triple Alliance or Central Powers and the Britain France and Russia formed the Triple Entente These alliances were building up their army and navies and more Germany had trained 8.5 million Russia 4.5 million France over 3.5 million Austria-Hungary 3 million Britain didn’t have many soldiers but its navy was bigger then all four nations combined All the rulers of Europe were related Queen Victoria of Great Britain Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany and Czar Nicholas of Russia were related On June 28th, 1914 Archduke Franz Ferdinand next in line to the throne of Austria-Hungary went to the Bosnian capitol of Sarajevo review the Austrian Troops his wife Sophie accompanied him Austrian spies in Serbia warned him not to go because of Assassination attempt he ignored these and went any way as a motorcade made its way down Sarajevo’s main street guarded by 120 policemen on route six young Serbian men having hand guns and explosives provided by the Black Hand waited to try and kill the archduke The Archduke’s car passed two assassins with out incident then the car passed the third and he threw a bomb the bomb bounced off the car alerted to danger the car drove off to the town hall the assassins had missed their chance the archduke canceled his visit and return by a different route confused about the new plan the driver went down the wrong street into and ally the fourth assassin had come and shot the Archduke and his wife this had started WWI When WWI started the generals at the time introduced new types of warfare Total Warfare that didn’t just aim to destroy their military but to destroy their cities economy and people and Position warfare where you build up your defenses and make them so strong that break threw would be impossible especially with 18th century offensive tactics also the Ottoman empire came into the war on the Axis side and they were responsible for the lost at Gallipoli The Germans in 1915 the Germans introduced Biological warfare this was seen by the allies as inhumane for suffocating their men but the Germans thought it was humane and a less painful way to die the gas attacks also caused temporally blinded some people and killed few but gas makes also in 1915 air warfare was introduced first zeppelins were used to bomb London then Biplanes then dog fights came where Biplanes would shoot at each other In 1916 new vehicles such as the tank and motor cycle led to great victories on the western front In 1917 the Russians revolution over threw the Czar and the provisional government put in place still wanted to go to war but the Russian people eventually over threw that and put in the Bolshevik’s which then worked a peace treaty but the loss of Russia wasn’t a bad one because America had entered the wars on the allies side after Germany wanted and alliance with Mexico to attack America but the war still could be won with the veteran troops from the eastern front the western front had more men to fight but eventually Italy had defeated Austria and the Emperor abdicated power which ended the Austro-Hungarian empire then Britain had gone threw Palestine and destroyed the Ottoman empire by splitting up it’s empire between Britain and France and Germany low on Man power eventually signed and Armistice which led to their defeat

History seems to be repeating itself because Germany is climbing up the political ranks and is becoming head of the European Union. They are supporting strong political and military power and unity. The EU will become stronger and invade the Middle East soon. They will come in and it will look like a piece mission and than it will be very oblivious was the will do.

__Germany has Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation__ Germany has a powerful economy - the fifth largest in the world - and it grew in 2007 with 2.6% growth. Germany had high unemployment and this stronger growth led led to decreased unemployment in 2007. Modernizing eastern Gemany continues to be a costly process and has annual transfers from west to east of about $80 billion.The former government of Chancellor Gerhard Scroeder started reforms of labor market and welfare-related institutions. The current government of Chancellor Angela Merkel started other reform measures, like the gradual increase in the mandatory retirement age from 65 to 67 and measures to boost female participation in the labor market. Germany's aging population and high unemployment has pushed social security outlays to a level exceeding contributions. Corporate restructuring and growing capital markets are starting to help Germany meet the long-term goals of European economic integration and globalization. Germanys economy had some challenges in 2008 as the strong euro, high oil prices, tighter credit markets, and slowing growth abroad took their toll. //__ Germany __////__ in World War II~ __//

Field marshal Hindenburg was elected president in 1925. Adolf Hitler joined the German Workers or Nazi party in 1919. In the 1933 election he played on the emotions of the German people that Germany was a scapegoat for the Great War. He blamed losing the war on the leaders of the allies, on Russia, and on the Jews who controlled finances. Hitler promised a Third Reich that would last 1000 years. The German people were desperate and would accept any solution that would end their problems and restore Germanys’ former glory. Hitler finished second in the 1933 election after Hindenburg. Hindenburg made him chancellor. As chancellor he passed the enabling act that gave him dictatorial powers. He made himself the new leader or Furher of Germany. Then Hitler started to take Jews civil liberties and privileges away. When in 1939 Hitler started exterminating Jews he had also fixed German industry, restored the military, fixed unemployment, and taken over Austria and Czechoslovakia. This justified his actions and when people started realizing what Hitler was really doing he was already too powerful and killed those who spoke against him. He exterminated six million Jews, Poles, Gypsies, and other unwanted peoples. In September 1939 he invaded Poland causing Britain and France to declare war. France fell soon after to the Blitzkrieg. Then Germany invaded Russia. The United States entered in war in December 1941 after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Germany coundn’t support a war of such size and was pushed back by the Allied invasion of Europe on one front and Russia on the other. Hitler encouraged his army to fight to the death to defend Germany. In April 1945 Hitler killed himself as Russia overran Berlin.


 * //__ Legends and Myths __//**

~Some Nazis thought that the German race who were Aryan had come from Atlantis.

~There are many legends of ghosts in local castles.

~There are also many myths about elves in German forests.


 * //__ Hot Spots __//**

~ Neuschwanstein Castle is a big attraction.

~Oktoberfest, this is the place to be if you like beer.

~There are many concentration camps still open to visit.

~The Black Forest is another popular vacation spot. ~The city of Cologne.

 Ruler - Germany has a prime minister and a parliament.

<span style="font-size: 18pt; color: #00c6ff; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;">
= || <span style="font-size: 18pt; color: #00c6ff; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;"> = =<span style="font-size: 18pt; color: #00c6ff; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;"> = =<span style="font-size: 18pt; color: #00c6ff; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;">Montenegro:]! = __Location:__ It is located in the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula. To the west north and east it borders on Croatia, Boisnia-Hercegovina, Serbia and Kosovo, and south borders on Albania. __<span style="color: #173012; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">History of country: __ It began in the 15th century when the crnojevic dynasty began to rule the Serbian of Zeta. During World War I Montenegro fought on the sides of the allies but was defeated by Austria. From 1919 to 1941, Montenegro was part of what became Kingdom of Yugoslavia. In 1910, Prince Nikola I became king of Montenegro. Two years later, king declared war on the Ottoman Empire. That precipitating the two Balkan Wars. After World War II from 1945 to 1992, Montenegro separated form Serbia and became a republic in its own right.

Capital: Podgorica Government: Republic Language: Montenegrin

Montenegro has very many hot spots. One of the most visited places in the Christian world is the Monastery of Ostrog. People of all religions and nations visit here. Ostrog is located above the Bjelopavlic Valley, its carved in rocks as though keeping century old secrets of this shire. Metropolitan Vasilije (Saint Basil) founded the monastery of Ostrog in the 17th century. There are two churches that make up Ostrog. The upper church, dedicated to Holy Cross and the lower church in Upper Monastrey is dedicated to Vavendenje of Holy Mary.
 * __ Hot Spots __**

One of the most beautiful bays of the world is Boka, the Bay of Kotor. Tourists mostly come here to relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea. High Cliffs that surround the bay from all side reflect in the deep blue waters of the Adriatc Sea. Seven islands decorate the Bay. Saint Marco, the island of Mamula, the island of our lady of the Rock, Saint George, the island of Milosrdja, the island of Flowers, and the smallest island of Little Mother of God. The road lining the Bay of Kotor passes through a chain of cities that can enlighten the traveler, each by their unique characteristics and history. Among them is Kotor, City of Cultural Heriatage.

514 of the most precious gifts of nature to Montenegro is the peninsula of Sveti Stefan (Saint Stephen). Today, it is an attractive city-hotel with villas and apartments that display magnificent views to the sea horizon. On the penisula there are also rich cultural and historic heritage left behind by its original inhabitants. On the left and right side of the sandy isthmus, connecting the island with the shore, there are two beautiful beaches of reddish color.

<span style="font-size: 80%; color: #ff3838; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;">Legends: a.) All the faded history, pride and fierce independence gave Montenegro a mythic allure. There is a lot of urban legends and some of them true. Montenegrins are the tallest people in Europe. Most peoples stole cars end up there; rich Russians are buying the coast. b.) In Saint Basil thru a seed of pear he just ate over railing onto the cliffs, and in the morning a large tree has grown thru the rocks with flowers on one side and pears on the other. This happens or believes to happen every February. <span style="font-size: 80%; color: #ff3838; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff;">c.) According to another story saint basil, who was know as a expert doctor, needed parsley immediately and nobody had some. He planted seeds of parsley that night and the next morning he had grown parsley available for use. This same parsley kept growing year after year in a corner where it was not exposed to sun or rain.

San Marino <3 by Marissa Sobetski, Kortnee Stephans & Kaitlyn Grias

<span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· The third smallest state in Europe (after the Holy See and Monaco), San Marino also claims to be the world's oldest republic.
 * __ Location & Information __**

<span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Symbol; mso-list: Ignore; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">· You can see two of the three towers (as seen on the flag of San Marino) Cobblestone pathways line the cities old and unique structures
 * According to tradition, it was founded by a Christian stonemason named Marinus in A.D. 301.
 * San Marino's foreign policy is aligned with that of Italy; social and political trends in the republic also track closely with those of its larger neighbor
 * 43 46 N, 12 25 E
 * One-tenth the size of New York City, San Marino is surrounded by Italy.
 * It is situated in the Apennines, a little inland from the Adriatic Sea near Rimini.
 * San Marino is the capital
 * __ History __**
 * San Marino, the oldest republic in the world, is the sole survivor of the independent states that existed in Italy at various times from the downfall of the Western Roman Empire to the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. (The Vatican City State, which is also an independent enclave in Italy, was not constituted in its present form until the 20th century.)
 * According to tradition, San Marino was founded about A.D. 350 and had the good luck for centuries to stay out of the many wars and feuds on the Italian peninsula. It is the oldest republic in the world. San Marino has survived, completely intact, attacks by other self-governing Italian city-states, the Napoleonic Wars, the unification of Italy, and two world wars. Those born in San Marino remain citizens and can vote no matter where they live. It joined the United Nations in 1992.
 * __ Hot spot  s  __**
 * Simply walk around the city.
 * Serraville is the largest city

== [|Rocca Guaita (prima torre)]  [|Rocca Guaita (first tower)] == <span style="font-size: 7.5pt; font-family: Arial; text-align: center; mso-ansi-language: IT; msoansilanguage: IT;">

>>> Centro Storico - tel. == [|Rocca Cesta (seconda torre)]  [|Rocca Cesta (second tower)] == <span style="font-size: 7.5pt; font-family: Arial; text-align: center; mso-ansi-language: IT; msoansilanguage: IT;">
 * Primo fortilizio costruito nel secolo XI e restaurato in varie epoche successive.  First fort built in the XI century and restored in several successive eras. Alcuni ambienti furono adibiti a carcere.
 * Some environments were used as prisons.   A sinistra dell´entrata vi è la cappella della Rocca, dedicata a Santa Barbara. To the left is the chapel of the castle, dedicated to Santa Barbara.

>>> Centro storico, Salita alla Cesta - tel.
 * Secondo fortilizio.   According fort.    Risale al XIII secolo. It dates to the thirteenth century. Si trova sul più alto picco del Monte Titano.
 * Located on the highest peak of Mount Titan.   All´interno vi è il Museo delle Armi Antiche dal XIII al XIX secolo.
 * Inside there is the Museum of Ancient Arms from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century.

Montale (terza torre) Montale (third tower)
<span style="font-size: 7.5pt; font-family: Arial; text-align: center; mso-ansi-language: IT; msoansilanguage: IT;">


 * Terzo fortilizio.   Third fortress.    Torre di avvistamento. Warning tower. Ebbe molta importanza durante le lotte contro i Malatesta.
 * He had great importance during the struggles against Malatesta.   Pur essendo visitabile solo esternamente permette la visione di un suggestivo panorama.
 * Although it is only open to the outside allows the display of a fascinating panorama.


 * __ Little known legacies/legends __**


 * Since san Marino is one of the most habitable places on earth they made a law stating that young people couldn’t marry someone of elder age (by a lot) to gain citizenship in San Marino
 * During the year 257 AD the emperor Diocletian issued a decree calling for the reconstruction of the city walls of Rimini which were destroyed by Demosthenes, King of the Liburnians. Among the stone cutters and engravers who came from all over Europe, there were two.
 * It is not certain if they came in search of employment or were fleeing from some religious persecutions. Shortly after their arrival on Rimini territory, they were sent to Mount Titano to extract and process various types of stone; they remained there for three long years.
 * Later the two companions decided to go their separate ways
 * Marino, instead, decided to return to Rimini and remained there for 12 years and 3 months, as narrated in epigraphs. During this period he continued to profess his faith and lead a life of penitence. Later, he withdrew to Mount Titano where he founded a small community of Christians. During this period on Mount Titano, it is said that Marino accomplished miracles; such as, healing a Dalmatian sinner possessed by the devil (who was disturbed by the sanctity of Marino). The woman attempted to circumvent him by affirming to be his legitimate wife. Or, the time he is said to have tamed a bear.
 * The most important miracle, however, was the encounter with ** Verissimo **, son of the noble woman and widow Felicity, owner of the territory of Mount Titano.
 * Verissimo disputed the residence of Marino on his territory and Marino, predicting the menacing intentions of the young man, prayed to the Divine Providence for help. In that very moment Verissimo fell paralyzed in his legs and arms. The mother, in her desperation, rushed to the Saint to ask his pardon and to offer him anything he desired. The Saint replied that he had no other desire but their conversion and baptism and a plot of land to rest upon. Felicity accepted and to express her appreciation and thanks, donated Mount Titano to Marino and all his descendants. Verissimo was healed and all 53 members of the family were converted to Christianity!
 * Marino, ** ordained Deacon ** by the Bishop of Rimini, continued his life of meditation and prayer and, on ** September 3rd ** of perhaps the year 366, he died. This date is solemnly celebrated in the Republic.

The Netherlands!!! <span style="font-size: 130%; color: #fd86d5; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; msofareastfontfamily: Symbol; msobidifontfamily: Symbol; msolist: Ignore;">

Location::

· Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany. Lowlands of Northwestern Europe. The Capital is Amsterdam <span style="font-size: 140%; color: #e866f4; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;">History:: <span style="color: #ff6666; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">History of the Netherlands reaches from 1century BC when the roman forces conquered Germanic and Celtic tribes inhabiting the area. Under the roman peace and prosperity conquered for over 250 years. Germans then invaded from the east and turned them to Christianity and by 800 the land was ruled by Charlemagne, the greatest of Frankish kings. After his defeat in the 1st century, a protestant church formed in the Netherlands and revolt against the roman church. The roman church eventually won most of the population’s religion choice. The Dutch Netherlands faced many wars for their land and won while it raged against Europe. The People of the land have lived mostly peacefully since. They have many natural disasters such as the flooding when northeastern rivers in Europe overflowed. This caused the Netherlands 1 billion of their dollars. It got the name the nether lands by it being of such low lands (nether means low) The Netherlands have had to fight many battles due to the North Sea on its west. <span style="font-size: 18pt; color: #ff6666; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: 140%; color: #ffdb38; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif;">Main Attractions and Hot Spots:: Modern Dutch Dance-

The Keukenhof Flower Exhibition- Acres and Acres of beautiful flowers of all types including the beloved flower of the Netherlands, The Tulip.

Club Arena Amsterdam & Club Escape Amsterdam- Classical Music Concerts in the Hague- The Chocolate Festival In November- The first two weeks in November is when Amsterdam is transformed into the chocolate centre of the world. Hotel rooms put chocolate furniture in the rooms. They also have chocolate parties and walks De Parade-Transforms the four major Dutch cities into an avenue of dance, music, film and spectacular food and drink. Attractive Shows (For Children Too) are interspersed with life, mime acts, and cabaret.

The Netherlands have a temperate climate just as our own. They receive much more precipitation than us. They have a mild, damp climate. It is also called Holland Population:16.4 million Currency: Euro Constitutional monarch:: Political System

<span style="font-size: 36pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Times New Roman;"> <span style="text-align: center; text-decoration: none; msoansilanguage: EN; text-underline: none; textunderline: none;"> History Neanderthal skulls were discovered in a Belgian village Brussels was founded over 1000 years The first people who lived in Belgium were the Belgae who were from the Celtic tribes In 1795 Belgium became part of France Professor Edward J. de Smedt, a Belgian, invented the asphalt road Brussels was founded over 1000 years The saxophone was invented by Adolphe sax a Belgian Belgium surrendered to the Nazis after just 18 days Belgium was liberated beginning in [|1944] by Allied forces Since the fifteenth century Belgium has been famous for making tapestry Belgium was the site of Napoleon's final defeat, at Waterloo Culture [|Bruges] is known as the "Venice of the North" because of its many canals The Channel Tunnel opened up direct route connection between London and Brussels. Dutch is the official language of Belgium Government Belgium banned cluster bombes Belgium legalized euthanasia Belgium has the densest population of art collectors Beethoven family originated in Belgium The saxophone was invented by adolphe sax a Belgium is a [|constitutional], [|popular monarchy] and a [|parliamentary democracy]. Belgium is part of the European Union



Hotspots Belgium’s greatest hotel is the [|L'Auberge de Bouvignes] Ostend was an early holiday resort popular with British.

Folk Lore In the 14th century Brussels Belgium was under siege and the attackers planed to destroy the city walls with explosive charges, a boy spied on them and pied on the fuss and saved the city, L'Auberge de Bouvignes

Cuisine The Belgians are famous for their cuisine. They claim to have invented French Fries The Belgians have invented over 800 different kinds of beer Belgian waffles are considered among the best in the world

Trivia Belgium’s motorway is the only man-made structure in the world visible from the moon The world’s richest girl lives in Brussels The popular cartoon the smurfs was started in Belgium The Gillet Vertigo, the only Belgian sports car, holds the record for fast from 0 to 100 in 3.22 seconds England <span style="font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> England is one of many countries in Europe it’s one of the most popular. England is located in the United Kingdom. Its capital is London. England is bordered by the North Sea, Irish Sea, Atlantic Ocean, and the English Channel. England has 58 million people occupying it. <span style="font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Arial Narrow';">

<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Arial Narrow';"> <span style="font-size: 36pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Alba Super';">

<span style="font-size: 36pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Castellar;"> Fun facts & History <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Times New Roman;"> <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> · // England //// was in both World War 1 and 2 // <span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Symbol;">· //<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Rockwell;">World War 1 was fought against Russia, and France // <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> · // World War 2 was fought against Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, Soviet Union and the U.S. // · // The Prominent religions of England are Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh // · // The First king England ever had was Egbert // · // William the 1 was known as William the Bastard // · // Henry the 9 when he became king // <span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Symbol;">· //<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Rockwell;">The Bubonic Plague happened during Edward the 3rd’s term // <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> <span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Symbol;"> · // Henry the VI came to the throne as a baby // · // Henry the VIII had 6 wives! // <span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Symbol;">· //<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Rockwell;">The first woman to rule England was MaryI (Bloody Mary) // <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> · // ElizabethI never married // · // Charles II had 13 mistresses // · **// England was bombed a lot during World War 2 //** <span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Rockwell;">

England ’ s Hot Spots __BATH__ __ CAMBRIDGE __ __ BRIGHTON __ __ MANCHESTER __ __ OXFORD __ __ YORK __ <span style="color: rgb(102,102,102); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"> __ BRISTOL __ __ LIVERPOOL __ <span style="color: rgb(102,102,102); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"> ** Scotland **** is the number 1 most populated city **
 * Bath, a World Heritage Site and city in England, is famous for its hot springs, Roman period baths, medieval heritage, and stately Georgian architecture. Currently a popular resort destination, tourists can explore not only the historical sites, but also local pubs, museums, nightclubs, and theatres. Just 100 miles west of London, the Roman baths of Bath has been a tourist destination for centuries. **
 * The university town of Cambridge offers travelers not only a great look at classical architecture, but parks, gardens and museums as well. One of the top tourist destinations in all of England, Cambridge also offers nice shopping as well as fun restaurants and pubs. **
 * Brighton is the United Kingdom's largest and most popular seaside resort, alive with over 300 bars and a multitude of clubs, restaurants, hotels, and other forms of entertainment. Tourists to this area like to visit Pebble Beach where they can relax and socialize in the sun and where they can find more bars and clubs to enjoy. In May, Brighton hosts an arts festival, and the city has many great museums and art galleries. Brighton is a fantastic choice for vacationers looking to kick back and have a great time. **
 * Pleasant open countryside with picturesque villages surrounds Manchester in the United Kingdom, and there are numerous art galleries, theatres, museums and country houses to visit. Manchester receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year from all over the world. Britain's second largest city is also one of its most dynamic and cosmopolitan. Manchester is an exciting modern city for business, a place in which to live, works, and studies, and a top choice by travelers as the ideal holiday **** destination. **
 * While the city is known mostly for its university, Oxford also contains wonderful architecture, museums, galleries, and parks. The River Thames offers travelers a touch of tranquility, and even the various markets around town hold a sense of calm and quaintness. **
 * York is a historic city in northern England, offering an array of places to stroll and explore. The Shambles and Clifford's Tower are popular sites for tourists; while plenty of museums, cafes, castles, pubs and gardens are also well worth the visit. **
 * Bristol, the second largest city in the south of England, teems with a smorgasbord of attractions and activities from medieval architecture in Old Bristol, to the museums of Temple Meads, and the wonderful maritime artifacts of The Floating Harbor. Bristol hosts a festival nearly every week during the summer, filling the city with dance, music, and theatre. Bristol is the kind of place that has a little something to make everyone happy. **
 * The birthplace of the fabulous four, Liverpool has experienced a boom in tourism since their debut. Liverpool holds one of the most impressive art galleries in the world (holding paintings from Rembrandt and Degas), as well as the legendary Philharmonic orchestra and the areas top football and horse racing teams. Many of the buildings have been standing since the 1700s, and even with new sky rises cropping up, they still retain their charm. Slated to become Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2008, this flourishing city is ready to be explored. **
 * With cherished icons of the past such as Stonehenge and Oxford mixed in with the modernity of fashion and fine dining, England a perfectly unique blend of the old and the new. Whether you're interested in the hustle and bustle of London or would rather peruse its quaint countryside, there's something for everyone in "jolly old England." **

<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Rockwell;">

<span style="display: block; font-size: 450%; color: #f33939; font-family: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace; text-align: center;">GREECE <span style="display: block; color: #f43e3e; font-family: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace; text-align: center;">By: Angelica Pedrys Tiffany Pennington Kaiti Walker

<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(245,41,41);">**L<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">ocation ** **-** it’s located in southeast end of Europe. Greece is the southernmost country on the Balkan Peninsula.

<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">**<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(240,25,25);">History **<span style="color: rgb(236,94,9); font-family: Times New Roman;">**<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(240,25,25);">- ** <span style="color: rgb(170,36,240);"><span style="font-size: 110%; color: rgb(236,94,9); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">6000-2900 BC - Neolithic Period=age of simplicity and beginnings of communities. 1100-750 BC- The Dark Ages The time between the fall of the Mycenaean civilizations and the readopting of writing in the eighth or seventh century BC. After the Trojan Wars the Mycenaean went through a period of civil war, the country was weak and a tribe called the Dorians took over. Some speculate that Dorian invaders from the north with iron weapons laid waste the Mycenaean culture. Classical period- Greeks began to have conflicts with Persia, plus the death of the Macedonian king. Next they conquered Alexander the Great. At this time Athens was at a huge point in the government department: making the new democratic system of government under the Athenian statesman Pericles.

<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(243,22,22);">**<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Hellenistic period - ** conquest of Persian Empire by Alexander the Great and the set up of Roman supremacy, in which Greek culture and learning were in the Mediterranean an Asian Minor. It is called Hellenistic to distinguish it from the Hellenic culture of classical Greece. Government - Population 10 million, capital- Athens, national independence day- march 25, constitution written- June 11, 1975, gained independence- from Ottoman Empire march 25, 1821. President- Kostis Stephanopoulos. Type of Government : Parliamentary Democracy. The president elected by Parliament for a five-year term. Branches of Government: Executive, Legislative, Judicial.

<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(242,28,28); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Wars- most influential wars fought were the Trojan War. There were many different types of the war that were fought. Wars were a very common event in ancient Greece. The Greeks lived in tiny little city states. The tiny little city-states could be compared to America's individual states. These city states of Athens, Sparta, Corinth, and Thebes were all fighting against one another over their borders. In 490 BC the Persians attacked Athens. Everybody was very scared, because the Persians were good fighters. Some people thought Athens should go back to the old system of government, the oligarchy, in case democracy didn't work. They thought it would take too long to make decisions in a democracy. But they didn't go back. After the Peloponnesian War was over, all the cities of Greece were tired and poor. Many men went and fought for the Persians for money. But others tried to rebuild the cities. This was the time of Socrates and his student Plato.



<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(243,27,27);"><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">**<span style="font-size: 14pt; color: rgb(226,64,64); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Mount **** <span style="color: rgb(226,64,64); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;"> <span style="color: rgb(255,9,0); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Olympus - **   home to the twelve most powerful people, the Olympians. The mount is the highest point in Greece. Lies on the border of Macedonia and Thessaly. The top of the mountain is covered in snow and hidden by the clouds. Although the Greek Gods are very different Olympus is high above the under world and the sea. So therefore it only suits Zeus.

<span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(239,31,31);">**<span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Olympic games ** -  ** three main people were key in this myth. These games were held in honor of Zeus, chief of the Greek pantheon of gods. Pelops was a local hero and considered the founder of the Games. Hercules was the greatest hero of Greece. He had to do twelve unbelievable tasks to free himself from the King. He also instituted the first games in honor of Zeus at Pelops’ tomb. **




 * <span style="font-size: 120%; color: rgb(247,29,29); font-family: 'Lucida Console',Monaco,monospace;">Famous people- **some people you have heard of. Socrates is the man who created the Socratic Method. He went around asking people about what they knew. Socrates taught many people, but no one was more betraying than Alcibiades. He turned on his teacher and accused him of high treason. Another is Alexander the Great. He was a Macedonian king who conquered Cheapened Empire.


 * Albania **** ! **

CHRONOLOGY OF ALBANIA 1912 - Declared independence from Ottoman Empire. 1939 - Italy conquered Albania. 1944 - Communist partisans took over the country. 1960 - Allied themselves with the USSR. 1978 - Allied themselves with China. 1990’s - Ended 46 years of xenophobic Communist rule. 1991 - Multi party democracy was established. 1997 - Collapse of pyramid schemes 2005 – General elections.

RULER Albania has a president named Alfred Moisiu.

GEOGRAPHY A little smaller than Maryland. Countries that surround Albania are Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Kosovo, Montenegro and Serbia Cool, wet winters; hot, dry summers. A lot of hills and mountains.

NATURAL RESOURCES Petroleum, natural gas, coal, bauxite, chromite, copper, iron ore, nickel, salt, timber and hydropower are natural resources of Albania.

20.1% of Albania is arable land, 4.21% is permanent crop while 75.69% is used for other things. These facts were of as 2005.

WARS There has been many wars in this country but there has only been four since the year 1945. Hot Spots In Albania people like going to Tirana Lake, Durres, Vlora, Shkodra, Elbasini, Korca, Saranda, and Gjirokastra. People learn about things and also get to swim at the beach. They also run by Tirana Lake.

By: Brittanie Burke, Lidia Xhafa and Krystal Buettner.(:



**FRANCE**

Location- Southwestern Europe Notheast of Spain and Portugal, south of Germany, Luxembourg, and Belgium, and west of Italy. Some of the major cities are Paris which is the capital. Other major cities are Lyon, Nantes, Toulouse, and Strasbourg.

Movement- has several major airports and a major tourist attraction especially the Eiffel Tower.

**<span style="font-size: 20pt; color: rgb(255,72,76); font-family: Times New Roman;">Little Known Facts **

The //Marseillaise//, the French national anthem wasn’t sung in Marseleille but in Strasbourg. Two weeks in France is actually 15 days. //Lefevre// // is the most popular last name in France. Many other interesting facts about France are that the cheese they make the best one has to sit 30 months to be at its best. //

// **Frances History** // // France //// was one of the first independent nations in Europe. It’s the third biggest country in Europe after Russia and the Ukraine. It was a major factor in the world wars that happened in the 20th century and helped the allies win against Germany. During the second World War the Allies landed on the east coast of France and the invasion began on D-Day //

= History = Archeological excavations indicate that France has been continuously settled since Paleolithic times. The Celts, who were later called //Gauls// by the Romans, migrated from the Rhine valley into what is now France. In about 600 B.C.  Greeks and Phoenicians established settlements along the Mediterranean, most notably at Marseille. Julius Caesar conquered part of Gaul in 57–52 B.C. , and it remained Roman until Franks invaded in the 5th century  A.D.   The Treaty of Verdun (843) divided the territories corresponding roughly to France, Germany, and Italy among the three grandsons of Charlemagne. Charles the Bald inherited //Francia Occidentalis,// which became an increasingly feudalized kingdom. By 987, the crown passed to Hugh Capet, a princeling who controlled only the Ile-de-France, the region surrounding Paris. For 350 years, an unbroken Capetian line added to its domain and consolidated royal authority until the accession in 1328 of Philip VI, first of the Valois line. France was then the most powerful nation in Europe, with a population of 15 million. The missing pieces in Philip Valois's domain were the French provinces still held by the Plantagenet kings of England, who also claimed the French crown. Beginning in 1338, the Hundred Years' War eventually settled the contest. After France's victory in the final battle, Castillon (1453), the Valois were the ruling family, and the English had no French possessions left except Calais. Once Burgundy and Brittany were added, the Valois dynasty's holdings resembled modern France. Protestantism spread throughout France in the 16th century and led to civil wars. Henry IV, of the Bourbon dynasty, issued the Edict of Nantes (1598), granting religious tolerance to the Huguenots (French Protestants). Absolute monarchy reached its apogee in the reign of Louis XIV (1643–1715), the Sun King, whose brilliant court was the center of the Western world. After a series of costly foreign wars that weakened the government, the French Revolution plunged France into a bloodbath beginning in 1789 with the establishment of the First Republic and ending with a new authoritarianism under Napoléon Bonaparte, who had successfully defended the infant republic from foreign attack and then made himself first consul in 1799 and emperor in 1804. The Congress of Vienna (1815) sought to restore the pre-Napoléonic order in the person of Louis XVIII, but industrialization and the middle class, both fostered under Napoléon, built pressure for change, and a revolution in 1848 drove Louis Philippe, last of the Bourbons, into exile. Prince Louis Napoléon, a nephew of Napoléon I, declared the Second Empire in 1852 and took the throne as Napoléon III. His opposition to the rising power of Prussia ignited the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871), which ended in his defeat, his abdication, and the creation of the Third Republic. A new France emerged from World War I as the continent's dominant power. But four years of hostile occupation had reduced northeast France to ruins. Beginning in 1919, French foreign policy aimed at keeping Germany weak through a system of alliances, but it failed to halt the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi war machine. On May 10, 1940, Nazi troops attacked, and, as they approached Paris, Italy joined with Germany. The Germans marched into an undefended Paris and Marshal Henri Philippe Pétain signed an armistice on June 22. France was split into an occupied north and an unoccupied south, Vichy France, which became a totalitarian German puppet state with Pétain as its chief. Allied armies liberated France in Aug. 1944, and a provisional government in Paris headed by Gen. Charles de Gaulle was established. The Fourth Republic was born on Dec. 24, 1946. The empire became the French Union; the national assembly was strengthened and the presidency weakened; and France joined NATO. A war against Communist insurgents in French Indochina, now Vietnam, was abandoned after the defeat of French forces at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. A new rebellion in Algeria threatened a military coup, and on June 1, 1958, the assembly invited de Gaulle to return as premier with extraordinary powers. He drafted a new constitution for a Fifth Republic, adopted on September 28, which strengthened the presidency and reduced legislative power. He was elected president on Dec. 21, 1958.

BY: Terrell Taylor and David Labute

Republic of Macedonia = <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Times New Roman;">Location – South-eastern Europe, North of Greece, west of Bulgaria, South of Serbia, and east of Albania. Capital is Skopje and is located in Northern Macedonia. Other major cities include, Kumanovo, Stip, Gostivar, Debar, and Prilep

Movement – has 17 airports (as of 2007), 699 kilometers of railway, 13,182 kilometers of roadway,

People – 2,061,315 (july of 2008), Ethnic groups – Macedonian 64.2%, Albanian 24.2%, Turkish 3.9%, Roma (gypsies) 2.7%, Serb 1.8% other 1.2%, Religion – Macedonian orthodox 64.7%, Muslim 1/3, other Christian .37%, other and unspecified 1.63%, basic expectancy of 12 years, 96.1% literacy rate

Human Environment Interaction – Natural Hazards – Earthquakes. Current environment issues – air pollution. 550 square kilos are used for farming, and also irrigated land, 6.4 cu km as of ’01, natural resources – iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, chromite, manganese, nickel, tungsten, gold, silver, asbestos, gypsum, timber and arable land

Region – Total Area is 25,333 kilometers, Slightly larger then Vermont, Climate – warm dry summers and autumns with relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall, no coastline, highest point is golem korab it is 2,764 meters above sea level, mountainous territory covered with deep basins and valleys, three large lakes divided Vardar river

=
Timeline -Caranus establishes the first Macedonian kingdom and the first known Macedonian king- 808-778 B.C. -Alexander I another king of Macedonia expands kingdom and fights with the Persians in Greek/Persian War while son, as king, instigates conflict between Athens and Sparta ending in the Peloponnisian War- 498-413 B.C. -Years later Macedonia becomes economic power and organizes army.- 413-399 B.C. -Phillip II defeats Macedonian neighbors (Illyrians, Thracians, Greeks)- 359-356 B.C. -Phillip’s son Alexander carries Macedonian armies into Russian conquering Persia making largest Empire.- 336-323 B.C. -Alexander the Great dies, Macedonia goes into Civil War between Macdonian Generals, empire is divided between antigonust I ( Macedonian and Greece), Ptolemy I (Egypt) and Selucus I (Asia)- After death of A.T.G. -Phillip V clashes with rome, the two Macedonian wars resulted in a loss from the Macedonians, Macedonia is reduced to natural borders and by 146 B. C. Macedonia is a Roman province.- 300-146 B.C. -Rome conquers Asian Macedonian kingdom- 65 B.C. -Romans conquer Egypt Macedonia, Macedonia completely conquered- 30 B.C. -Macedonia is site where Christianity begins- A.D. 51-63 ====== -Macedonia becomes part of the Eastern Roman Empire- 395 -Slavs overrun Macedonia- 535 -Cyril and Methodius create first Slavonic alphabet and promote Christianity- 855-886 -Under Byzantine rule- 976-1018 -Ottoman turks conquer Macedonia- 1389 -Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria fight to take control of Macedonia- 1828-1878 -struggle for independence begins against Turkish rule- 1876 -Macedonians rebel and make first constitution known as the Rules of the Macedonian uprising Committee-1878-1879 -Macedonians declare independence- 1903 -Combined forces defeat turks but Macedonia is still disallowed independence- 1912-1913 -WWI- Serbian Macedonia joins Central Powers-1914-1918 -Paris peace conference Macedonia is still denied independence- 1919 -WWII Bulgaria joins fascist powers and occupies Macedonia, citizens launch war for liberation-1941 -Macedonia establishes constitution from communism- 1944 -First gov of the People’s Republic is founded- 1945 -Constitution of the People’s Republic is finally adopted- 1946 -Macedonia gains independence- 1946 -Admitted to U.N.-1993 -becomes member of Council of Europe- 1995 <span style="display: block; color: rgb(5,5,5); font-family: Tahoma,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="display: block; font-size: 200%; color: rgb(238,23,23); text-align: center;">**__Denmark__**
 * [[image:http://travel.state.gov/images/maps/macedonia.gif width="265" height="239" caption="Macedonia map"]] ||
 * Macedonia map ||


 * __<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: 'Porky',s;">Location: __**<span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Tahoma;">Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany, also includes two major islands (Sjaelland and Fyn)


 * [[image:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/maps/da-map.gif width="337" height="231" caption="Map of Denmark"]] ||
 * Map of Denmark ||

Wars: Denmark has been in many wars with countries around them, including: World War 1, World War 2, and the Great Northern War. During World War I, Denmark maintained neutrality. At the beginning of World War II Denmark was occupied by Germany. Religion: Over 86% of the people are members of the official religion, the Evangelical Lutheran Church. Muslims are the next largest group with about 2% of the population. Protestants and Roman Catholics together make up another 3% of the population. About 9% of the population claims to have no religion.
 * __<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: 'Porky',s;">History: __**<span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Tahoma;">The King of Denmark reigned from 1912 to 1947. Once the seat of Viking raiders, Denmark evolved in to a modern nation that in participating in the general political and economic integration of Europe. The country has opted out of certain elements of the European Union’s Maastricht Treaty, which <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Tahoma;">amended the provisions of the Treaty of Rome while advancing the agenda set out under the Single European Act for deepening European Political Union. It created a new model for the Community based around three pillars. It officially created the European Union, which became the title to cover all the functions of the much-expanded European governmental structure. <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Tahoma;">Remains from the Stone, Bronze, and Iron ages have been found in Denmark, which would make it an amazing place to visit.

__<span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: 'Porky',s;">Legacies/Legends: __ Denmark is rich in old legends of heroes, of churches and manor houses, of hills and fields, and of the bottomless moorland. These stories date from the days of the great plague, from times of war, and from times of peace. They live on in books or on the tongues of people.

// *Their idea of Heaven was Valhalla. You had to die in battle first before you were escorted by a beautiful blonde. In Valhalla you could clash in battle all day long, your cleft limbs and leavenings miraculously restored at the close of play. Then you spent all night carousing, feasting, getting roaring drunk and discussing the day’s fun. // // *The enemy once made a great attack on the Danish island of Fyen. Only one village was left standing, and this was soon to be sacked and burned. // // Two poor people lived in a low-roofed house at the edge of the town. It was a dark winter's night, and the enemy’s were expected at any minute. The two poor, anxious people opened their psalm book to see if they could find anything in it to help or to comfort them. They opened their book and turned to the psalm, "A mighty fortress is our God." // // Full of confidence, they sang the psalm, and their faith was renewed. They went to bed and slept well in the care of the Lord. In the morning, when they awoke, they found the room entirely dark. There was no glimmer of daylight, and the door would not open when they tried it. Then they climbed to the loft, and opened a trapdoor in the roof, from which they saw that it was broad daylight. But a heavy snow had fallen in the night. It had drifted over their whole house, and hidden it from the enemies who had pillaged and burned the town during the night. The two people clasped their hands in thankfulness, and again they sang, "A mighty fortress is our God," for He had shielded them and raised a rampart of snow around their home. // __<span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: 'Porky',s;">Hot Spots: __ Jelling: Two runic stones at Jelling with drawings & inscriptions of ancient people & places have provided considerable historic information. The smaller of the stones was set up by Gorm for his wife & has the inscription “Gorm the king set up this monument to Thyra his queen, the pride of Denmark.”

Dragor: It is a little town on the island of Amager, & is a popular holiday resort which is restrained the character of a rural fishing community.

Church of the Holy Cross: The church of the holy cross was made as part of the landscape around Jyllinge. With its glass wall facing the fjord and a “fishing net” dividing the space of the church, the design is very historical. A good place to build a church, the place has a huge power with its spatial topography.

Rosenborg Castle: Located in Copenhagen, Denmark, <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Tahoma;">Rosenburg Castle in Copenhagen houses the royal crown jewels and acts as a museum of the Royal Family. It was built by Christian IV (1606-1634) in Renaissance-style as a royal summer residence & has a copper roof & moats surrounding it. __<span style="font-size: 16pt; color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: 'Porky',s;">Interesting Facts: __
 * Denmark produces a lot of stuff. In 1847 Denmark started to export to England wonderful Danish bacon. People in England liked it very much. Today, Denmark export bacon worldwide.
 * "Lurpak" butter is probably the best known brand of butter in the world. You can buy it in more then 100 countries.

<span style="display: block; color: rgb(84,9,179); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">

<span style="font-size: 36pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Georgia;">Switzerland **__Little known Legacies/Legends__**

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Lucida Sans';">The average Swiss eats 23 lbs of chocolate per year compared to the 11.7 lbs consumed by each American annually.

<span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: 'Lucida Sans';">The pioneer of Swiss chocolate-making, François Louis Callier, opened the first Swiss chocolate factory.

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Lucida Sans';">Conscripts in the Swiss army get free chocolate, wrapped in special foil bearing the Swiss flag, and adults bring each other chocolate as a dinner-party gift.

Chocolate is seasonal in Switzerland, with the usual Easter bunnies padded out during the year with chocolate chestnuts and chocolate mushrooms in autumn, and chocolate flowers in spring. Chocolate is regional, too, with chocolatiers in the Jura making presentation boxes of chocolate watches, Bern producing elaborate chocolate bears

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Times New Roman;">

**__ Tree legends __** <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: 'Lucida Sans';">Another tree with a story is the lime tree at Linn, near Brugg in Canton Aargau. According to legend it stands over the grave of plague victims. The story says the disease wiped out the entire population of Linn, leaving only one survivor. Since even the carter employed to take the bodies to a distant cemetery was dead, this survivor had to get rid of the bodies as best he could, so he simply threw them into a common grave beneath the tree. The story probably relates to the plague of the 1660s, the worst ever outbreak in the area - it killed more than two thirds of the population. But the tree was certainly already standing at that time: it is thought to be between 600 and 800 years old. It is now huge: it has a diameter of 3.4 meters (11.1 feet). The tree has survived several attempts on its life: on occasion people have lit fires in its hollow trunk, but all have been put out. The latest attempt to do away with it occurred in 1990, when someone tried to poison it.



<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);">** 48% ** of Swiss citizens responded that "they believe there is a God". [|**Catholicism**] <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);">With over three million adherents, the Roman Catholic Church is the majority in Switzerland and is obviously extremely well-represented throughout the country. It is the dominant religion in the rural cantons and the cities that experienced a wave of immigration from Southern Europe in the 1970s <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);">The Protestant Church is the second largest in the country, grouping over 2.7 million people. Switzerland plays a central part in the history of Protestantism, with [|Zwingli] <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);">and [|Calvin] <span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);">contributing largely to the international cultural influence of their homeland.
 * <span style="font-size: 26pt; color: rgb(153,0,204); font-family: Georgia;">__Religions__ **
 * 39% ** answered that "they believe there is some sort of spirit or life force".
 * 9% ** answered that "they do not believe there is any sort of spirit, God, or life force".
 * [|Protestantism] **

**__<span style="font-size: 26pt; color: rgb(153,0,204); font-family: Georgia;">Hot Spots __**

Geneva 's most distinctive landmark is undoubtedly the Jet deau. The Jet deau is one of the world's largest water fountains. The fountain can be enjoyed from many parts of this Swiss community.

<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Georgia;">

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: 'Lucida Sans';">They have mountains all over were you can take tours and hikes and admire the spectacular view.

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0); font-family: Georgia;">

<span style="color: rgb(0,0,0);"> Zurich : known for most populous city of Switzerland is famous for its financial institutions and shops on the Bahnhofstrasse. The also have painting areas and swimming spots.

**__<span style="font-size: 28pt; color: rgb(153,0,204); font-family: Georgia;">Location __** Borders West - Central Europe **__<span style="font-size: 28pt; color: rgb(153,0,204); font-family: Georgia;">Artist __**
 * Germany
 * Austria
 * Liechtenstein
 * France and
 * Italy

Famous painter from Switzerland: Annunziata Fiumi

<span style="display: block; font-size: 120%; color: #292724; font-family: 'Lucida Console', Monaco, monospace; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 90%; font-family: 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">Annunziata Fiumi, born 1946 in Passignano at the Lake Trasimeno by Perugia in Italy, was shaped by the beauty of her home-lake and the nature very early. One in her proximity managing, today famous artists, whom she observed with the mark often and alertly, just as miscellaneous art-courses have motivated her to it, itself, to develop her own, very lifelike style in the landscape - and nature-art.

<span style="font-size: 250%; color: #50f296; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, sans-serif;">** MALTA **


**<span style="font-size: 200%; color: #dff94e; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">Hot Spots in Malta ** <span style="font-size: 110%; font-family: Georgia, serif;">The capital of Malta is the host for many concerts and plays along with street events and exhibitions. Scuba diving is a popular sport on the Islands. The Nadur carnival is hosted in Gozo and there are parades in Valletta. People, mostly children, can enjoy fun parks and activites. People who love art can visit the National museum of fine arts. In Malta, there are 365 beautiful churches, one of them is known for having the third largest dome in Europe. The best time to visit these islands is during fiesta time so you can experience all of its true colors and beauty.

Interesting Facts About Malta **
 * <span style="font-size: 270%; color: #51eff6; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">

<span style="font-size: 110%; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Malta might be a small island, but there sure are a lot of interesting facts about it. For instance, it used to be known as Melita which means the island of honey by ancient Greeks and Romans. Also the University of Malta was founded back in 1592, so it's a pretty old building. Napoleon took over the island of Malta in 1798 but it ended later on. Another thing about Malta is that it is a very Catholic country, and they take their religion pretty seriously. People also say that the Maltese language is interesting because it sounds like its Arabic (even though it's definitely not) but it uses English characters. If you visit this country, you shouldn't get too lost because many people are familiar with the English language, but you better be careful because there are some crazy drivers up in this island!

<span style="font-size: 270%; color: #f5fa4c; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">
 * History of Malta**

<span style="font-size: 110%; font-family: Georgia, serif;">The first people who settled on the island of Malta are believed to be from Sicily, an island about 60 miles north. In Malta you will see many temples, due to the temple period. Back in the day Malta was sold and resold among various countries which are now parts of Germany, France, or Spain. The Maltese language originated from the Sicilian-Italian language. Malta gained it's independence in 1964, became a republic in 1974 and a part of the European Union in 2004.



<span style="font-size: 270%; color: #c85fe7; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">**Legends of Malta**

<span style="font-size: 110%; font-family: Georgia, serif;">An interesting legend in Malta is the legend of "Il-Gawgaw". Basically people in Malta felt that it was bad to be born on Christmas Eve. They say if you were born on December 24th, then you would transform into a ghost called Il-Gawgaw. When this person was in the form of a "Gawgaw" they would scare people with their groaning. This believe only lasted until the end of the 19th century.



Malta's Location **
 * <span style="font-size: 270%; color: #42f73b; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">

<span style="font-size: 110%; font-family: Georgia, serif;">The capital of Malta is Valletta and it's located near the East coast side of the island. Malta lies in the central Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily Italy in the European Region. The island is a little less than twice the size of Washington D.c. Some parts of the island aren't connected together and were moved apart when they broke from Italy. The weather there is typically Mediterranean climate which consists of hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. There is only one airport located in Malta which is paved. There's about 2,227 kilometers of road highways. Marsaxlokk is the most important port and harbor called the Malta Freeport.



<span style="font-size: 150%; color: #ff484c; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">by: Peri Sadiku, Rachel Wells, Ana Vela

= = =** The Early History of Scotland: **= One of the oldest nations of Western Europe is Scotland. <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);">Gaels, Picts, Scots, Britons, Anglo-Saxons, and Norsemen all took part in the formation of this current country. Dalriada is one of the first colonies in western Scotland, which was founded in the early sixth century. In the early fifth century, Scotland had its first contact with Christianity as a main religion. The main and most important mountain ranges in Scotland include the British Isles and Ben Nevis. Before there were all these mountains and high elevation levels, this area used to be highly populated in the 19th century. The Industrial Revolution also caused the population to decrease, which makes Scotland have one of the lowest populations in all of Europe.

**<span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);">A **good-natured, invisible brown elves or household goblins that live in farmhouses and other country dwellings in Scotland were known as Brownies. The Loch Ness Monster is a legendary animal which lives in the depths of Loch Ness, a lake in the Highlands of northern Scotland. The size of this monster, Nessie as it is fondly called, is 12-15 m (40-50 ft) and it has a long, snake-like neck. It is popularly believed to be female. Boobrie is a fabulous water-bird of Scottish Highland folk belief. The creature haunts lakes and salt well. The Fachan is a very ugly creature from the western highlands of Scotland. He is portrayed with one leg, one arm and one eye.
 * <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Times New Roman;">Legends of Scotland: **


 * Loch Ness Monster **


 * Brownie **** à **

A hot spot in Scotland is the Edinburgh Castle because it dominates the city of Edinburgh like no other castle in Scotland. For thousands of years, a lot of history sat at the top of the Edinburgh volcanic rock. It is a sight that you will have to see and visit to understand why it is so breathe taking, and to understand all the history that lies within. The Edinburgh Castle is unequalled to all of the British Isles. This is the second tourist attraction to Scotland because of it’s breathe taking skyline. Human habitation for this castle goes all the way back to the 9th century. Many of the other castles have only been around for as long as the 16th century.
 * Hot Spot: **

Location It is also South of Latvia, next to the Baltic Sea, North of Poland, Next to Belarus.

History The history of Lithuania is an epic adventure. In 1236 Lithuania became a single nation. It became a single nation by Grand Duke Mindaugas. In the 14th century Lithuania stretched its boundaries further, until it was one of the largest states in Europe. It contains Belarus and Ukraine, Moscow and the Black Sea. In 1795, as part of the partition of Poland among Russia, Prussia, and Austria, most of Lithuania came under control of the Russia tsar. 1831 to 1863 was a failed attempt to win independence. So a more organized movement for the independence of Lithuania emerged in 1880. There was a demand for a self-movement in 1905. Only it was refused by the Russians.

Legends’ There are many legends and myths in Lithuania. One of them is the iron wolf that the Grand Duke of Lithuania had a dream about. He was hunting in the woods of the Valley of Sventaragis. After a good day of hunting he settled down to rest. That is when he had the dream of the iron wolf. It stood on top of a huge hill, looking down upon its meadow. In its stomach a loud roar came out. It sounded of a thousand angry wolves. He believed this dream to be true. So he told people of the wolf, and they all feared it to be true. After this incident the Duke went to a priest to find the hidden meaning behind the dream. And the priest told him: “What is destined for the ruler and the state of Lithuania, let it be: The iron wolf means a formidable castle and town which will be established by the ruler on this site. The city will stand as strong as iron and its walls will protect the land from its enemies. The massive sound dwelled inside the wolf, symbolized the fame of the city shall echo beyond their borders and proclaim throughout the centuries the glory of Lithuania.”

Hot Spots If you want a special place to hang out for a vacation, go to Lithuania. It’s filled with great tourist attractions. Some examples the boat rides. You can also go fishing. It’s a sad excuse to sit there and do nothing all day. They have a castle dating from the 14th century. That would be a very cool experience. And for the parents who don’t have their kids with them, you can go to a spa to relax. It will take a load off, not having to worrying about where your kids are. There are many old century castles and churches. Lithuanians second city Kaunas is known as the ‘city of museums’. If you’re an art fan, look up those museums. Ciurlionis, is a painter who had a whole museum dedicated to him.

By: Shawna Sutton, Ian Knapp, Brad K.

= =

**//__LITHUANIA__//**
= = Location It is also South of Latvia, next to the Baltic Sea, North of Poland, Next to Belarus.

History The history of Lithuania is an epic adventure. In 1236 Lithuania became a single nation. It became a single nation by Grand Duke Mindaugas. In the 14th century Lithuania stretched its boundaries further, until it was one of the largest states in Europe. It contains Belarus and Ukraine, Moscow and the Black Sea. In 1795, as part of the partition of Poland among Russia, Prussia, and Austria, most of Lithuania came under control of the Russia tsar. 1831 to 1863 was a failed attempt to win independence. So a more organized movement for the independence of Lithuania emerged in 1880. There was a demand for a self-movement in 1905. Only it was refused by the Russians.

Legends’ There are many legends and myths in Lithuania. One of them is the iron wolf that the Grand Duke of Lithuania had a dream about. He was hunting in the woods of the Valley of Sventaragis. After a good day of hunting he settled down to rest. That is when he had the dream of the iron wolf. It stood on top of a huge hill, looking down upon its meadow. In its stomach a loud roar came out. It sounded of a thousand angry wolves. He believed this dream to be true. So he told people of the wolf, and they all feared it to be true. After this incident the Duke went to a priest to find the hidden meaning behind the dream. And the priest told him: “What is destined for the ruler and the state of Lithuania, let it be: The iron wolf means a formidable castle and town which will be established by the ruler on this site. The city will stand as strong as iron and its walls will protect the land from its enemies. The massive sound dwelled inside the wolf, symbolized the fame of the city shall echo beyond their borders and proclaim throughout the centuries the glory of Lithuania.”

Hot Spots If you want a special place to hang out for a vacation, go to Lithuania. It’s filled with great tourist attractions. Some examples the boat rides. You can also go fishing. It’s a sad excuse to sit there and do nothing all day. They have a castle dating from the 14th century. That would be a very cool experience. And for the parents who don’t have their kids with them, you can go to a spa to relax. It will take a load off, not having to worrying about where your kids are. There are many old century castles and churches. Lithuanians second city Kaunas is known as the ‘city of museums’. If you’re an art fan, look up those museums. Ciurlionis, is a painter who had a whole museum dedicated to him.


 * __//ITALY//__**

<span style="display: block; color: rgb(230,20,20); font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="display: block; font-family: Georgia,serif; text-align: left;">__Location__ -Italy is located in Europe next to France.

__Little known facts__

-Italy is know for its sports cars like Ferrari and Lamborghini -Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was set in Verona Italy -Archimedes one of the most famous mathematicians was born it Italy. -Leonardo da Vinci the famous painter was born in Italy he was also a sculptor, architect, engineer, and scientist -The city of Pompeii was completely buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. -During the fourteenth century the Bubonic Plague, known as the "Black Death", killed one-third of the Italian population. -Mealtimes are important to Italians. Meals are a time to spend with families. Stores even close for several hours at lunch and about half the children in elementary schools go home for lunch. <span style="color: rgb(0,18,255); font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif;"> -Almost 20% of Italy's population is over 65 years old. <span style="display: block; color: rgb(30,47,246); font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif; text-align: left;"> -The famous children's story, // Pinocchio //, was written by an Italian. -The average Italian consumes half a pound of bread a day. -With almost 40 million visitors, Italy is the fourth most visited country in the world. -The ice cream cone is an Italian invention.

__ History of the Country __

-1915- Italy joins WWI on side of allies -1935- Italy invades Ethiopia -1940- Italy joins WWII on Germany’s side -1941- Italy declares war on USSR -1955 – Italy joins United Nations -They had kings from 1861-1946 then they switched to presidents and that is still going on today. -Their current president is Giorgio Napolitano. -Some wars that Italy were in include Great Wars of Italy World War I and World War II -Most of Italians are Roman Catholic but there are some that are Italian Paganism and Stregheria   Change 0 of 0 << First < Previous Next > Last >> Help · About · Blog · Terms · Privacy · [|**Support**] · **Upgrade** Contributions to http://zablockisclass.wikispaces.com are licensed under a [|Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike 3.0 License]. Portions not contributed by visito

Sweden becomes unified. Olof Skötkonung is the first king. Sweden becomes Christianized. The Great Power period. Many wars lead to the expansion of Swedish territory. Sweden acquires its present borders. This is also the last time Sweden was engaged in war The breakthrough of industrialism in Sweden. Sweden is neutral during the World War II. With industry intact after WW2, and with high quality engineering, Sweden becomes one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Sweden becomes a member of the European Union.
 * Swedish time line**
 * 900**
 * 1050**
 * 1610-1718**
 * 1812**
 * 1850 **
 * 1939-45**
 * 1950**
 * 1995**

<span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Times New Roman;">1350: the Black plague, “sweeps Sweden one third of the inhabitants die <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);"> 1397 - Union of Kalmar unites Denmark, Sweden and Norway under a single monarch. Denmark is the dominant power

1523 Gustav I of Sweden re-establishes separation of the Swedish Crown from the union <span style="color: rgb(51,51,51); font-family: Times New Roman;"> 1901 Alfred Nobel, wins a science gig and wins 1 million dollars 1905 The union with Sweden disintegrates and Norway becomes an independent kingdom

1914-18 World War I Sweden remains neutral

1939 - World War II Sweden declares its neutrality

Sweden rejects a request from Germany to use its territory as a transit route for troops 1940 - Sweden is forced to allow German troops to march through Sweden to Norway

1939 - 1945 WW11

August 1945 The United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki 1945 Germany surrenders to the Allies. Sweden War History Russian-Sweden War In the 1780es the domestic situation in Sweden was precarious, and King Gustav III., who ruled the country absolute since 1772, believed a "little war" might help to distract the people from social ills. Swedish troops in Russian uniforms attacked a Swedish border post in Finland, causing an outrage in Stockholm which provided the excuse for the declaration of war on Russia. Denmark, Russia's ally, in return declared war on Sweden Polish-Sweden War The long Polish-Swedish War of 1600-1629 developed from the [|Swedish Civil War of 1597-98]. An alliance had developed between the Commonwealth of Poland-Lithuania and Sweden towards the end of the Livonian War, and in 1587 Sigismund Vasa, the heir to the Swedish throne, had been elected king of Poland-Lithuania in an attempt to secure that alliance. Instead, it had cost Sigismund the throne of Sweden. He inherited the title in 1592, but was unpopular in Sweden, and in the civil war of 1597-98 was deposed by his uncle, Charles duke of Södermanland (who would later claim the Swedish throne as Charles IX). Sigismund returned to Poland in 1598, but remained determined to regain the throne of Sweden. Sweden Civil War The Swedish Civil War of 1597-98 was the result of an attempt to secure the alliance between Poland-Lithuania and Sweden. In 1587 Sigismund Vasa, the heir to the Swedish throne was elected king of Poland-Lithuania as Sigismund III. Five years later, in 1592, Sigismund succeeded his father John III as king of Sweden. He inherited the throne in the middle of an unsuccessful war with Muscovy (1590-1595), which saw Sweden loose Ivangorod, Kopor’e, Ingria and Kexholm. Sigismund was a largely absentee ruler, making a visit to Sweden in 1593-94. Real power in Sweden was increasingly held by his uncle, Charles, duke of Södermanland, who acted as Sigismund’s regent during his absences. As a Catholic Sigismund was somewhat suspect in Lutheran Sweden, although he was more popular in Finland, where the threat from Russia made the Polish alliance more desirable. How did a girl who died for her faith in the 4th century AD in Sicily become a symbol of the Christmas season with candles in her hair and a tray of sweet breads in Scandinavia? In between are many legends, and maybe just a few facts. Their Flag It is believed that the cross indicates the close ties between the Scandinavian states. The colors come from the national coat of arms. This shows three gold crowns on a blue field. It is believed that the cross indicates the close ties between the Scandinavian states. The colors come from the national coat of arms. This shows three gold crowns on a blue field. Foreign Ministry report: "An official statement and recognition of the Genocide of the Armenians is important and necessary. In 1985 the UN and the European Parliament established the fact that the Ottoman Empire had committed genocide against the Armenian people in the beginning of the 20th century. The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs is of the opinion that the greater openness Turkey demonstrates, the stronger Turkey's democratic identity will be. It is therefore important that unbiased independent and international research on the genocide committed against the Armenian people be carried out. It is of great importance that an increasing openness and historical understanding of the events of 1915 and thereafter be developed. An improvement in this respect would also be of importance for the stability and the development in the whole Caucasus region." Daily Diet Meat or fish vegetables potatoes cheese a bowl of yogurt and milk with mostly all meals. Drink coffee a lot They make there food look fancy Smorgasbord which mean sandwich table They love caviar, semlor roles filled with cream and marzipan are a favorite during lent or as a dessert The Sweden’s quite and reserved in their lifestyle, it is very much in their characteristic that they are pleasant and kind to elders. No one meets a rude Sweden. Many believe that hard work is necessary to pay for Sweden well fair state. The Sweden pays the highest taxes in the world in order to pay for their welfare Education Education in like America is available to everyone in Sweden regardless of wealth. There are may private schools, but the majority of kids go to state-run schools. All children are required to go through 12 years of compulsory education. The main religion in Sweden is Christianity. The reason for their Christianity was when A French Benedictine monk called angsar arrived at the trading center of Birka to spread the Gospel. Close to half a million Muslims form the largest group of non-Christians? They are made up of immigrants from the Middle East, turkey, and North Africa. The next largest group is the Jews. Who have had congregations in Sweden for more than 200 years? There are also small number of Buddhists, Hindus, and Jehovah’s Witnesses. <span style="color: #f63131; font-family: 'Arial Black', Gadget, sans-serif;">**TURKEY** __LOCATION__: Turkey is located in southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Georgia, and bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between Greece and Syria. __HISTORY OF THE COUNTRY__: Their independence war was 1919-1923. They won their independence from Switzerland. The outcome of the war was a defeat of Greece. __LITTLE KNOWN LEGACIES/LEGENDS__: Mt. Ararat is the highest peak in Turkey at 5,165 m (16,946 ft). Etox is a Turkish sports car brand, based in Ankara. The population of Turkey stood at 70.5 million. Orhan Pamuk won the Nobel Prize in 2006 for literature. The most popular sport in turkey is Futbol (American Soccer). It is estimated that 9 out of 10 kids play Futbol. The last Olympics held in Turkey were in 1900.
 * The Legends of Lucy of Syracuse **

HISTORY: The Prime Minister is elected by the parliament through a vote of confidence in his government and is most often the head of the party that has the most seats in parliament.

HOTSPOTS

The Sea of Marmara Inland, the cities of Edirne, in Thrace, and Bursa, in Marmara, are both fascinating historic towns with a wide range of magnificent architecture, such as the Selimiye Camii in Edirne, said to be the masterwork of Turkish imperial architect, Mimar Sinan. There’s a forested mountain reserve with excellent summers and winters.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a spectacular, almost surreal landscape of rock and cones, capped pinnacles and fretted ravines. Dwellings have been hewn from the soft, volcanic rock since 400 BC, and the elaborate cave systems have sheltered generations of persecuted settlers. It’s an excellent destination for outdoor activities from mountain biking and hiking to hot-air ballooning, and one of the most historic and artistic regions in this culturally rich country.

The Bosphorus

The shores of both old and new cities lie along the northern, European bank of the Bosphorous, the narrow strait that divides Europe from Asia. Two massive suspension bridges now span these overcrowded waters, in which tour boats, ferries, supertankers and fishing vessels vie for space in the overcrowded waters. From all of them you see the Istanbul skyline, one of the most dramatic in the world. Tours up the Bosphorous include several notable buildings, including the Sultans' 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace.

** AUSTRIA Brought to you by Jon Doroszkiewicz, Martin Dwornick, Josh Stephens, and Warren Lewis **

** Location ** Austria is also known as AWESOMESTRIA, and it’s a landlocked country in Eastern Europe. It borders both Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The capital is the city of Vienna which is located at 48°N latitude and 16°S longitude on the Danube River.

**History Of the Country** Austria was once settled in pre-Roman times by several Celtic tribes in the prehistoric era. The first record showing the name Austria is from 996 where it is written as //Ostarrîchi//, referring to the territory of the Babenberg March. In 1438, Duke Albert V of Austria was chosen as the successor to his father-in-law, Emperor Sigismund. Austria later became engaged in a war with Revolutionary France - at the beginning highly unsuccessful - with successive defeats at the hands of Napoleon meaning the end of the old Holy Roman Empire in 1806. ** Hot Spots **

Salzburg
Salzburg is known as the "Rome of the North" because of the sheer number of churches it possesses. A compact city, it is packed full of attractions, and should be an essential part of any visit to Austria. Stroll through the old streets, enjoy one of its famous music festivals or just take some time to discover the city. Attractions include the Mirabell Palace whose gardens featured in The Sound of Music; the Hohensalzburg, a beautiful white fortress overlooking the city; the Carolino Augusteum Museum; and the High Altar at Franziskanerkirche. Salzburg is also the birthplace of Mozart. Visit the Mozarteum - the college of music where Mozart composed "The Magic Flute." 

The Hohe Tauern National Park
The Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the last great wilderness areas in Europe. The area has been immaculately preserved and showcases nature at its best. Taking up an area of more than 1,000 sq.km, it lies at the foot of Austria's highest mountains. The flora and fauna in the park is abundant and varies according to altitude. Mountain goats and sheep occupy the higher elevations and other animals, such as ibex, chamois, deer and a variety of birds, occupy the lower levels. The park offers plenty of activities including more than 450km of ski and snowboard slopes and a vast network of nature trails.

The Museum of the Future (Ars Electronica), Linz
The Ars Electronica is well worth a visit. Prepare to be visually stunned with five levels of 21st-century technological wizardry. The museum aims to ‘ facilitate and implement the harmonious collaboration of art, technology and society’ and it is this collaboration that is so fascinating.

**Other Criteria**

Music
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) Austria's past as a European power and its cultural environment have generated a broad contribution to various forms of art, most notably among them music. Austria has been the birthplace of many famous composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, Franz Schubert, Anton Bruckner, Johann Strauss, Sr., Johann Strauss, Jr. and Gustav Mahler as well as members of the Second Viennese School such as Arnold Schoenberg, Anton Webern and Alban Berg. Vienna has long been especially an important center of musical innovation. Eighteenth and nineteenth century composers were drawn to the city due to the patronage of the Habsburgs, and made Vienna the European capital of classical music. During the Baroque period, Slavic and Hungarian folk forms influenced Austrian music. Vienna's status began its rise as a cultural center in the early 1500s, and was focused around instruments including the lute. Ludwig van Beethoven spent the better part of his life in Vienna. Austria's current national anthem, attributed to Mozart, was chosen after World War II to replace the traditional Austrian anthem by Joseph Haydn. Austria has also produced one notable jazz musician, keyboardist Josef Zawinul who helped pioneer electronic influences in jazz as well as being a notable composer in his own right. Falco was an internationally acclaimed pop and rock musician.


 * Myths & Legends **

The legend of the "Schwarze Lacke" (Black Pool)

Up at the Wurmegg there is a small, pitch-black mountain pool. According to local legend, its depths conceal a golden coach, upon which a fearsome lindworm sits guarding over it. This lindworm apparently burrows on two sides of the pool. On the one side towards Filzmoos and on the other towards Neuberg. Whichever side it reaches first will be flooded by water from the lake. It is also said that a dull rumble has often been heard from the depths of the pool, and it is supposed that this sound is the roaring of an angry dragon, and very often there follows a heavy storm. A golden coach is supposed to have been sunk in the pool by Romans at the time of the persecution of the Christians. On three particular Saturdays in the year the shaft of the coach is supposed to be visible even today. Whoever succeeds in recovering the coach will be blessed with wealth for the rest of his days.

Three young lads once tried their luck. In high spirits they climbed up the mountain and the shaft of the coach was to be seen. Two of the lads set to work straightaway and the third one prayed for their success. As the two lads had almost recovered half of the coach, one of them said to the praying friend "As you've got the easy part praying, you only get a small sharte". He had hardly uttered these words, when the coach become heavier and heavier. Even with all their might they couldn't hold onto the coach any longer and could only watch as it disappeared back into the depths of the lake before their very eyes.

The Fountain of Youth at the Bischofsmütze

The "Kampenbrunn" or "Kramplbrunn" has its source next to the Bischofsmütze. The spring is ice-cold and generally only has a temperature of 1 to 2 degrees. The local people say, that whoever drinks from this source or bathes in it, will become at least ten years younger.

Near the "Kampenbrunn" two clefts in the rock are visible. Out of one of the two clefts cold air always blows and out of the other warm air, just llike the so-called "weather holes" in the Radstädter Tauern. There they are seen as a weather symbol.

At the Bischofsmütze it is said that two ghosts cause this strange, natural phenomenon.

= Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp =
 * Mauthausen-gusen was a concentration camp found in Austria 12 mi east of the city of Linz.
 * Grew to become a large group of Nazi concentration camps that were built around the villages of Mauthausen and Gusen in Upper Austria,
 * [[image:mauthausenLIB.jpg width="398" height="319"]]
 * a single camp at Mauthausen, it expanded over time to become one of the largest labour camp complexes in German-controlled Europe
 * Mauthausen-Gusen was one of the most brutal and severe concentration camps.
 * Inmates suffered from malnutrition, beatings, overcrowded huts, and from extra hard labors.
 * The death toll of the mauthausen-Gusen camps is undetermined because Germans destroyed camp files and evidence.
 * An estimate of the death toll is believed to be around 122,766 and 320,000 for the entire complex
 * The camps of Mauthausen-Gusen were the last to be liberated during the World War II. On 5 May 1945 the camp at Mauthausen was approached by soldiers of the 41st Recon Squad of the US 11th Armored Division
 * Following the capitulation of Germany, the Mauthausen-Gusen complex fell within the Soviet sector of occupation of Austria. Initially, the Soviet authorities used parts of the Mauthausen and Gusen I camps as barracks for the Red Army., 3rd US Army

Spain by Justine N. and Jordan L.

Spain’s location Spain’s location is far southwestern Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula. It’s bordered by the countries Andorra, France, Portugal, and by the British colony of Gibraltar. Spain’s history In a referendum in 1947- the Spanish people approved a Franco-drafted succession law declaring Spain a monarchy again. Terrorist attacks - On March 11, 2004, Spain suffered its most horrific terrorist attack: 191 people were killed and 1,400 were injured in bombings at Madrid's railway station More attacks- After four decades of violence, the militant Basque separatist group ETA, responsible for more than 800 deaths and for terrorizing Spanish society with its bombings and other attacks, announced a permanent cease-fire on March 24, 2006. War in Iraq- Aznar's backing of the U.S. war in Iraq was highly unpopular there were 90% of Spaniards opposed the war. Rulers of the Spain history- Juan Carlos l was king in 1938 – 1975 he was elected king after Francisco Franco.

Little known legacies/ legends Terrorism in Spain- between 7:37 a.m. and 7.39 a.m., ten bombs are detonated on trains arriving at Atocha, Madrid's main train station. Three bombs go off on a train on the platform. Two more explode on a train leaving El Pozo station then. Four bombs explode on a train just outside Atocha station. After these attacks the Spain cities the people went crazy and there were many riots. The major legends- there Christian Religion was made in to a book with all there ancestors’ past and made it very interesting in a book. (Edgar Allen Poe’s //The Pit and the Pendulum).// Hot spots- the one way to discover Spain’s main beauty is from its national parks, with wild life and scenery




 * //__ Poland__//**



The Location of Poland is central Europe, surrounded by Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and the Baltic Sea.

History- The History of Poland is a story of survival

In 1966-1993 430 new churches and chapels were built. There were a priest for every 763 believers, In the West and Central Poland there is a priest for ever 1211 believers, In the city of Przemysl there’s a priest for every 140 people.



Poland has been in many battles/wars. Battle of Legnicia, Battle of Grunwald are some battles. Some wars are wars with Russia, Sweden, Ottoman Empire, and the Dnieper Cossacks. Poland regained there independence the day World War I ended. The main war that Poland was in is World War II. The Germans invaded Poland. The Germans put thousands of Polish people in concentration camps. Poland was not a big county. It made attack on Poland a lot easier.

Hot Spots- Is a paradise for romantics, lovers of nature and restless drifters. The soft green mountains peppered with traditional wooden churches are one of the most secluded areas in Europe. The wildlife and landscapes make it an great holiday destination. Bieszczady is the most beautiful in summer and autumn, during winter they invite the fans of skiing. Is the highest mountain range between the Alps and the Caucasus. Rocky peaks covered with all-year snow, sharp ridges, picturesque ponds, waterfalls and valleys make this place supposedly the most spectacular in Poland. About 250 km of trails and a wide range of slopes would satisfy the most demanding hikers and skiers. A stay in Zakopane town at the foot of the mountains is recommended to those who love admiring beautiful landscapes and original folk culture. Picturesque land of reputedly 3,000 lakes. For sailing fans, fishermen, hikers, cyclists and those who seek tranquillity, the Masuria is the number one holiday destination. Apart from the water sports and wandering around, you may explore a multitude of historical places. There are castles in Reszel, Nidzica and Gizycko, the amazing Baroque church in Swieta Lipka and the Hitler's wartime headquarters in the forests near Ketrzyn.
 * [|BIESZCZADY MOUNTAINS] **
 * [|TATRA MOUNTAINS] **
 * [|MASURIAN LAKES] **

Legacy’s/legends ** Polish Legends, Folklore, Myths and Stories ** When King Boleslaw died, Poland lost a very able and brave ruler, one who had united her and made her into a really great country. One legend claims that Boleslaw, and his Knights who fought with him for he was a great warrior and earned his title of the Brave, by routing Poland's enemies he went into a mountain called Giewont. This mountain forms part of the Tatra mountain range, and its shape, if seen from a certain angle, is like the head of a sleeping Knight. Within the mountain is a huge dark cavern and there sleeps King Boleslaw and his Knights. They are mounted on horses, with their swords, bow and lances beside them. And if Poland ever needs them, then some one must awake them, and they will ride forth to serve the Polish nation. But once they have gone forth, they will never return.
 * [|Polish Legends] : ** Boleslaw and his Knights

Janosik - The Polish Robin Hood
Juro (George) Janosik was a robber, who with a group of friends, plundered, robbed, and burned the houses of the rich. And was said to operate on those on both sides of the Tatra Mountains, Polish and Slovak, and hide out in the forests at the foot of the Tatra mountains. However, according to legend he never harmed the poor in any way; on the contrary, he gave them money and gifts. Hence, the story circulated that Janosik robbed the rich to feed the poor, and the comparison with Robin Hood. Folk tales present Janosik as a hero who had supernatural powers; a magical resistance to arrows, bullets and wounds achieved with the help of a herb he carried in his pocket, an ability to move from one place to another quicker than any other human being; and was able to leave the impression of his palm in a slab of stone. One of the many legends surrounding Janosik claims that his powers were given to him by three witches whom he had met when he was young. Once, seeing his extraordinary courage, they decided to make him the most famous robber in all of history, and they gave him three magical objects: an alpenstock, a shirt, and a belt. Janosik always had the three gifts of the witches with him, and, for this reason, he escaped all traps. However, he was betrayed by a girl whom he often visited, and was captured. She was tempted by a promised reward. She craftily destroyed the gifts of the three witches and then denounced the helpless Janosik to the soldiers. Many folk tales exist in Poland and Slovakia concerning Janosik and several films have been made about his life. As with Robin Hood, no-one can be certain which of the many stories about Janosik have any basis in fact. Some films about Janosik include: Others in clued the, ** 1. The Dragon of Krakow ** ** 2. The Obra Water Monster ** ** 3. The Lady of Lagow Castle ** by. nate cottrell, dale buttrey, ryan g..
 * 4. The Lady of Lagow Castle **
 * 5. Rusalka - Polish / Slavic Tree Spirit **