Ireland

by Ida Walker and Shaina Indovino

Published 1 September 2012
Not long ago, Ireland was a country dealing with poverty and violence. Today, it has turned around and is now a peaceful nation. Ireland became a member of the EU in 1973. Its history also includes the Catholic Church, the potato famine, and long struggles for freedom. While Ireland's economy is currently doing poorly because of the global recession, it is working hard to recover. Discover more about this exciting, modern nation!

Germany

by Ida Walker

Published 29 September 2014
Ever since Germany formed in 1871, it has been a major world player. It was even a founding member of the EU in 1952. Although Germany's 20th-century history was often dark, it is now one of the most prosperous and stable countries in the world. It has struggled during the global recession, but it has also been a leader in facing the EU's economic difficulties. Discover more about this exciting, modern nation!

Belgium

by Ida Walker

Published 29 September 2014
Although Belgium is a small country, it is a big player in Europe. It was a founding member of the EU back in 1952. Today, Brussels, its capital city, is one of the EU's centers. Despite being divided between French and Dutch speakers, Belgium is a strong country with a lot going on culturally and politically. Discover more about this exciting, modern nation!