Define the following terms: Netherlands

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The Answer is The Netherlands, often referred to informally as Holland, is a country located in Northwestern Europe. It is known for a flat landscape of canals, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. The Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east. The country also includes three special municipalities in the Caribbean—Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba—often referred to as the Caribbean Netherlands.

The term "Netherlands" means "low countries" in reference to its low elevation and flat topography, with only about 50% of its land exceeding one meter above sea level. Much of the country is below sea level and is protected by a system of dikes, levees, and pumping stations. The Dutch have a long history of water management and land reclamation, which is reflected in their innovative approaches to preventing floods.

The Netherlands is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a head of state, the monarch, and a head of government, the prime minister. The country has a strong tradition of social tolerance, being one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage and known for its liberal policies on drugs, prostitution, and euthanasia.

The Dutch economy is very open and relies heavily on international trade. The Netherlands is one of the world's top exporters of goods, thanks to its highly mechanized agricultural sector and its major international port, the Port of Rotterdam, which is the largest port in Europe.

The Netherlands is also known for its contributions to the arts, with famous painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh hailing from the country. Dutch culture is rich and diverse, with a history of significant contributions to literature, philosophy, science, and engineering.

In summary, the Netherlands is a European country with a distinctive geographic profile, a rich cultural heritage, a history of social tolerance and innovation, and a significant role in global trade and international relations.

Define the Following Terms: Netherlands