The regions of Germany. A reference guide to history and culture

Abstract:

Each chapter in this work relates to one of the diverse federal states which constitute the reunified Germany. The sixteen states are: Baden-Wurttenberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, North Rhine Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein and Thuringia.

The work opens with an introduction, ‘Why Germany’s regions matter’. Each chapter then follows the same core approach, opening with a description of special aspects of the region, regional traits and geographic features. This is followed by commentary upon the main cities, regional history and economy, attractions and customs. A major section of each chapter is given over to cultural attributes and contributions, featuring the visual arts, literature, music, civics and remembrance, and cuisine - the latter being supported with regional recipes.

The work will be useful to students studying German and Germany, travellers and teachers.

Dieter K. Buse is Professor of History at Laurentian University, Ontario.