Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany after Berlin, with a population of over 1.8 million within its urban area. Here is a detailed overview:
History
- Founding and Early Years: Hamburg was established in the 9th century as a mission settlement to convert the Saxons. It was first mentioned in 808 as Hammaburg, a castle and trading center.
- Hanseatic League: By the 12th century, Hamburg had joined the Hanseatic League, becoming a significant player in trade along the Baltic Sea and North Sea.
- 16th to 19th Century: Hamburg faced numerous challenges including fires, plagues, and wars, but it continued to grow as a port city. In 1806, it was annexed by France during the Napoleonic Wars but regained its independence in 1814.
- World Wars: During World War I, Hamburg was relatively unaffected, but World War II brought significant destruction through air raids, notably the Operation Gomorrah in 1943, which led to the death of over 40,000 residents.
- Post-War Era: After the war, Hamburg was rebuilt and became a state of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949.
Geography
Hamburg is located in Northern Germany, along the River Elbe, approximately 100 kilometers from its mouth at the North Sea. The city is known for:
- Port: It has one of the busiest ports in Europe, which contributes significantly to its economy.
- Landscape: The city features a mix of urban areas, parks, lakes, and the unique Alster Lake, which divides into the Outer and Inner Alster.
Economy
Culture
Education
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