Germany and the Alpine Countries

1. Chapter 12 Section 3 Germany and the Alpine Countries

2. Germany • About the size of Montana • Alps in the south • North European plain in the north • Berlin – capital • Germany also has many other large cities

3. Economic and Industrial Leader • The Ruhr – one of the world most important industrial centers – rich deposits of raw materials • Germany imports 1/3 of its food • Government • Federal Republic • President serves as the head of the state but has no real power • The Chancellor chosen by the two houses of parliament is the real head of the government

4. The Germans • 83 million people • Language is German • Mainly Protestant and Catholics • Many people have made important cultural contributions to music and culture

5. The Alpine Countries • The Alps form most of the landscapes of these countries • Switzerland • Stable democratic government • Practices neutrality because of its location • Capital is Bern • Many different ethnic groups and religions • Four national languages • German, French, Italian, and Romansch

6. Austria • Landlocked country to the south of Germany • 8.2 million people live in cities • Most work in manufacturing or service jobs • 80% Roman Catholic • Vienna is the capital and largest city