1. Matthew Williams 12-7-2011

2. The German Confederation was created by an act of the Congress of Vienna on June 8, 1815. Karl von Drais in 1817 invented the bicycle. In 1914, Emperor Wilhelm II leads its neighbors and the country into World War I. In 1919 the war ended. World War II began on September 1, 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany. In 1945 the war ended. The first bicycle

3. You can eat 300 types of bread in Germany. They enjoy traditional dishes like roast pork and dumplings. The northern part of the country has a long fruit growing tradition. Apple cake is popular. Over 1,300 breweries produce a total of around 5,000 German beers. The potato is one of the most popular ingredients. The Black Forest cake is one of the most famous cakes in the world. It is viewed as the German cake and was first mentioned in 1934.

4. Traditionally lunch is the largest meal of the day and many try to eat at home with their family. The celebration of Easter and Christmas are very important in Germany. The Easter Bunny visits. And they decorate Christmas trees and sing carols. Germans take their days off seriously. No unnecessary noise is made on Sunday and holidays. No one is seen working outside. You cannot wash your car, make repairs or even hang up laundry. This Sunday quiet law is actually an official law.

5. Germany consist of 16 states. Berlin is the capital and largest city. There are more than 82 Million people living in Germany. January is the coldest month. The average temperature is about 31°F. July is the warmest month. The average temperature is about 64°F. Germany

6. German people wear modern cloths. On special occasions and festivals they may wear traditional costumes. Traditional cloths for woman and girls are called dirndl. German people are most known for the lederhosen. Lederhosen are traditional work clothes.

7. Most kids go to school for 11 to 12 years. Kids can start at age 6. There are both public and private schools. Normally there is no school uniform or dress code.

8. Germany celebrates Mardi Gras also. It is called Carneval. In the spring, there is Berlin’s Spandau Spring Festival. There are roller coasters, rides, food stands and fireworks. In May there is an Asparagus Festival in Darmstadt. The first ever 'Oktoberfest' was held in 1810 to celebrate a royal wedding. 'Oktoberfest' is the largest festival worldwide.

9. Spandau Festival Oktoberfest

10. Germany has very neat food. The black forest cake was my favorite. The potato is the most popular ingrediant. There are interesting festivals like the asparagus festival. The Sunday quiet law means no work on Sunday.