DER 3470 Advanced German ABroad course notes

 during my time studying an Advanced German Broad who was by most standards A-level, I
took these notes and observations
 easy on the eyes – by most standards
 I did not need hearing sensors because she did not talk to me; all communication was through
hand gestures, frowns, and the occasional chameleon fluorescing of the cheeks
 at least one german woman might have had some sort of shield with which my incisive laser-
like statements could not get through
 I had not chiseled my rosetta stone for German yet so I could not easily decipher her complex
communication patterns
 If I could invent a time machine, and go back in time, I would not have thrown her number
away due to personal insecurities, but because of time travel paradoxes, if I do invent a time
machine and go back and call her, then I will have no need to invent a time machine (Lessons
from H.G. Wells); thus, to get around this I will have to aim to do something else, which just so
happens to correspond to intersecting with her timeline and may or may not be a Star Trek
movie starring the Borg; in this way, I can assimilate her into the collective before she becomes
a threat in the Delta quadrant – I haven't worked out time travel yet, but neither did the authors
of Star Trek, but they still managed to make some good movies, so there is hope

Germany is a country located in Central Europe. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and
strong economy. Here are some key aspects of Germany:
1. Geography: Germany shares borders with nine other European countries: Denmark to the
north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, France
to the southwest, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west.
2. Capital: The capital city of Germany is Berlin, which is also its largest city. Berlin is known for
its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and cultural diversity.
3. Language: The official language of Germany is German. It is one of the most widely spoken
languages in Europe and is part of the West Germanic language family.
4. Government: Germany is a federal parliamentary republic with a democratic system of
government. It has 16 federal states, each with its own government and legislature, as well as a
federal government based in Berlin.
5. Economy: Germany has the largest economy in Europe and the fourth-largest in the world by
nominal GDP. It is known for its strong industrial base, particularly in sectors such as
automotive manufacturing, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Germany is also a
major exporter of goods and has a highly skilled workforce.
6. History: Germany has a complex and tumultuous history, including the rise and fall of the Holy
Roman Empire, the unification of Germany in 1871, two devastating World Wars in the 20th
century, and the subsequent division and reunification of the country during the Cold War.
7. Culture: Germany has made significant contributions to art, music, philosophy, literature,
science, and technology throughout history. It is known for its cultural heritage, including
composers such as Bach, Beethoven, and Wagner, as well as renowned philosophers like Kant
and Nietzsche.
8. Tourism: Germany is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque landscapes,
historic castles, medieval towns, and vibrant cities. Popular tourist attractions include the
 Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag in Berlin, Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, and the Rhine
Valley with its charming villages and vineyards.
Overall, Germany is a diverse and dynamic country with a rich cultural heritage, a strong economy, and
a prominent role in European and global affairs.

Germany is often a topic of discussion or interest for several reasons:

1. Economic Powerhouse: Germany boasts the largest economy in Europe and is one of the
leading economies globally. Its economic strength, particularly in sectors such as
manufacturing, automotive, engineering, and technology, often draws attention from businesses,
investors, economists, and policymakers.
2. Political Influence: As one of the most influential countries in the European Union (EU),
Germany's political decisions and policies can have significant impacts not only within the EU
but also on the global stage. Its role in European politics, as well as its stance on international
issues such as trade, security, and climate change, make it a key player in global affairs.
3. Historical Significance: Germany's history, particularly its role in World War I, World War II,
and the Cold War, has had profound effects on the course of global history. The country's
reunification in 1990 after the fall of the Berlin Wall marked a significant milestone in European
history and continues to shape geopolitical dynamics.
4. Cultural Contributions: Germany has made substantial contributions to world culture,
including music, literature, philosophy, art, and science. The works of German composers,
writers, philosophers, and scientists have had a lasting impact on global culture and intellectual
thought.
5. European Integration: Germany's central location in Europe and its economic and political
influence make it a key driver of European integration efforts. As a founding member of the
European Union and the Eurozone, Germany plays a crucial role in shaping EU policies and
initiatives.
6. Technology and Innovation: Germany is known for its emphasis on research and development,
innovation, and technological advancement. It is home to numerous world-class universities,
research institutions, and innovative companies, driving advancements in areas such as
engineering, renewable energy, automotive technology, and biotechnology.
7. Tourism: Germany's rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and
vibrant cities attract millions of tourists from around the world each year. Popular tourist
destinations such as Berlin, Munich, the Rhine Valley, and the Black Forest contribute to
Germany's prominence on the global tourism map.
Overall, Germany's economic strength, political influence, historical significance, cultural
contributions, technological prowess, and role in European integration make it a focal point of interest
and discussion in various contexts.
how did Germany become what it is today? Here's a simplified overview:
1. Geography and Early History: Germany's location in Central Europe has historically made it
a crossroads of cultures and civilizations. Ancient tribes inhabited the region, and over time,
various kingdoms, principalities, and city-states emerged.
2. Holy Roman Empire: In the Middle Ages, much of the German-speaking territories were part
of the Holy Roman Empire, a loose confederation of states under the nominal rule of the Holy
 Roman Emperor. The empire played a significant role in shaping the political and cultural
landscape of Central Europe.
3. Prussian Dominance: During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Kingdom of Prussia emerged as
a dominant force in what is now Germany. Under leaders like Frederick the Great, Prussia
expanded its territory and influence through military conquest and diplomacy.
4. Unification: In 1871, under the leadership of Prussian Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, the
various German states were unified into a single nation-state known as the German Empire.
This unification was achieved through a series of wars, including conflicts with Denmark,
Austria, and France.
5. Industrialization: Following unification, Germany experienced rapid industrialization and
economic growth. It became a leading industrial power, with a strong emphasis on
manufacturing, engineering, and technological innovation.
6. World Wars: The 20th century brought two devastating world wars, both of which had
profound effects on Germany and the world. Germany's defeat in World War I led to the
collapse of the German Empire and the rise of the Weimar Republic. The Treaty of Versailles
imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany, contributing to economic hardship
and political instability.
7. Nazi Era and World War II: The rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in the 1930s led to the
outbreak of World War II. Germany's aggressive expansionism and atrocities committed during
the war resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life. The defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945
marked the end of World War II and the beginning of the division of Germany into East and
West.
8. Cold War and Division: Following World War II, Germany was divided into two separate
states: the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany), aligned with the Western bloc and
supported by the United States, and the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), under
Soviet influence. Berlin was also divided into East and West sectors.
9. Reunification: In 1989, the fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of the Cold War division
in Germany. In 1990, East and West Germany were reunified into a single nation-state following
negotiations between the two Germanys, the Soviet Union, and the Western Allies.
10. Modern Germany: Since reunification, Germany has emerged as a leading economic
and political power in Europe and the world. It is known for its strong economy, technological
innovation, commitment to democracy and human rights, and active role in European and
global affairs. Today, Germany is a key player in the European Union and a driving force behind
European integration efforts.