How Countries got their names (Benelux Edition)

The Benelux is one of the most beautiful parts of Western Europe, consisting of Belgium, The Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The three are simultaneously alike and different from each other, and each holds a deep, fascinating history. From wars to prosperity, the Benelux offers a vast choice of topics to write about. Therefore, this article will begin with the basics and examine how each Benelux country got its name.

The Benelux

The Benelux countries are all located in Western Europe and are bordered by France, Germany, and the North Sea. The Netherlands is the largest and most populous of the three, with a population of around 17 million. Belgium is the second largest country, with a population of just over 11 million people. Luxembourg is the smallest country, with a population of around 600,000 people.

The Benelux countries are some of the most prosperous in Europe. Belgium has a GDP per capita of around $43,000, while the Netherlands has a GDP per capita of over $56,000. Luxembourg, however, has a GDP per capita higher than Belgium and The Netherlands combined, with over $115,000! This is significantly higher than the EU average of around $33,000.

The three countries have close economic and political ties. They are members of the European Union and the Eurozone and have a customs union and a single market. This allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people between the countries.

Belgium ("bel-zhuh" or "bel-jee-uh".)

The name Belgium is derived from the Latin word "Belgae", which means "land of the Belgae". The Belgae were a Celtic tribe that inhabited present-day Belgium, France, and the southwestern Netherlands. The name first appears in Julius Caesar's Commentarii de Bello Gallico as Belgica, which became common after this time.

The country has been known by several other names throughout its history, including Germania Inferior ("Lower Germany"), Belgica Foederata ("Federated Belgium"), and Belgica Regia ("Royal Belgium"). The official name of the country, however, has always been Belgium.

Netherlands ("neh-der-luhndz" or "neh-der-lahnts".)

The name Netherlands is derived from the Dutch word Nederland, which means "lowlands". This name refers to the fact that much of the country is below sea level. The Netherlands is also sometimes referred to as Holland, although this name technically refers only to the provinces of North and South Holland.

The Netherlands has been known by several other names throughout history, including the United Provinces, the Seven United Provinces, and the Dutch Republic. The country's official name, however, has always been the Netherlands.

Luxembourg ("loo-ksem-burg" or "luhk-sem-burg".)

Luxembourg's name is derived from the Latin word for "forest", lucus, and the German word for "fortress", burg. This is likely in reference to the fortified city that Count Siegfried established in 963. The Franks took control of the area in the 5th century, and the name eventually became applied to the entire country.

The country has been known by many other names throughout history, including the Duchy of Luxembourg, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and German-occupied Luxembourg. The official name of the country, however, has always been Luxembourg.

The Benelux countries are all fascinating places with rich histories. The names of these countries offer a glimpse into the past, and each will continue to play an essential role in the future of Europe and the world as a whole. Knowing the etymologies of how the Benelux countries got their names can give you a greater understanding and appreciation for the cultures of these nations. The Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg have rich histories dating back centuries that are reflected in the origins of their names. If you're interested in learning more about the cultures of the Benelux nations, research their history, try to discover other fun facts about the three, and let us know below or on Social Media!

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