BELLRINGER

Chapter 6: WESTERN EUROPE TODAYSection: 3 Germany and the Alpine Countries

I. GermanyA. Germany lies in the heart of Europe. Because of its rivers and productive land, Germany’s northern plain has many cities and towns, including Berlin, the capital. The Alps are in the southern state of Bavaria.

B. An area in western Germany called the Ruhr ranks as one of the world’s most important industrial centers.

C. The growth of factories, service industries, and high technology has used up the supply of German workers. Guest workers from other countries come for jobs but are sometimes targets of racist attacks.

D. Railroads, rivers, canals, and superhighways called autobahns link Germany’s cities.

E. Germany’s Black Forest, known for its beautiful scenery and wood products, has suffered severe damage from acid rain. Because much of the pollution comes from other countries, Germany is working with other Europeans to find a solution to this problem.

F. Germany is a federal republic in which a national government and state governments share powers. An elected president carries out ceremonial duties, while the chancellor is the real head of government.

G. One of Germany’s challenges is reunification - bringing East and West Germany together under one government.

II. The Alpine CountriesA. The Alps form most of the landscape in Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein. That is why these countries are called the Alpine countries.

B. Because of its location in central Europe, Switzerland has practiced neutrality - refusing to take sides in disagreements and wars between countries.

C. Because of Switzerland’s peaceful history, the Swiss city of Geneva is home tomany international organizations.

D. The Alps are the continental divide of central Europe. Rivers such as theRhine and the Rhône begin here.

E. Most of Switzerland’s industries and its richest farmlands are found on a plateaubetween two mountain ranges.

F. Although it has few natural resources, Switzerland is a thriving industrial nation. It is also an important center of international finance.

G. The country has many different ethnic groups and religions and four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansch. Most Swiss speak German, and many speak more than one language.

H. The Alps cover three-fourths of landlocked Austria. Austria is one of the most mountainous countries in the world.

I. Austria has a strong, varied economy. The mountains provide valuable timber and hydroelectric power and also attract millions of tourists.

J. Most Austrians live in cities and towns and work in manufacturing or service jobs. The majority of people speak German and are Roman Catholic.

K. Vienna, Austria’s capital, has a history as a center of culture and learning.

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