Belgium is a country located in Western Europe, bordered by France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. It has a population of over 11 million people and is also home to the headquarters of several international organizations, including the European Union and NATO. Throughout history, Belgium has been occupied by several different powers, including the Romans, Spanish, Austrians, French, and Dutch. In 1830, Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands and established a constitutional monarchy. Belgium played a significant role in both World Wars, serving as the battleground for numerous conflicts. It also experienced tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemish population and the French-speaking Walloon population, leading to linguistic and political divisions. These divisions have shaped the country's political structure, resulting in a federal system with regions having considerable autonomous powers. Belgium is known for its rich cultural heritage, including contributions to art, literature, and cuisine.
