The document outlines the historical and economic development of Belgium, starting from its creation as a buffer state after the defeat of Napoleon in 1815. It discusses the secession of the southern region to form Belgium, leading to economic disparities between the Flemish and Francophone populations, and highlights the significance of Antwerp as a central port in Europe. Additionally, it describes Belgium's federal structure and the limited but crucial role of the monarchy in mediating between the two linguistic communities.

1. World Political and Economic Geography
Metropolitan University Prague
Martin Kolmhofer, Ph.D.

3. After Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo in 1815, the major victorious powers (Britain, Austria, Prussia, and
Russia) agreed at Congress of Vienna on creating the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, which was
to serve as a buffer state against any future French invasions. Religion was one of the differences
between the almost solidly Roman Catholic south and the predominantly Protestant north of the United
Kingdom of the Netherlands, formed in 1815. The union broke up in 1830 when the south seceded to
form the Kingdom of Belgium.

4. Upon its independence, Belgium participated in the Industrial Revolution and, during the course of the
20th century, possessed a number of colonies in Africa The second half of the 20th century was
marked by the rise of contrasts between the Flemish and the Francophones fuelled by differences of
language and the unequal economic development of Flanders and Wallonia.

5. The Belgian economy is heavily service-oriented and shows a dual nature:
a dynamic Flemish economy and a Walloon economy that lags behind

6. Port of Antwerp: The inland location means that the port of Antwerp enjoys a more central
location in Europe than the majority of North Sea ports. Antwerp's docks are connected to the
hinterland by rail, waterway and road. As a result the port of Antwerp has become one of
Europe's largest sea ports, ranking second behind Rotterdam by total freight shipped.

9. Belgium is a federal State consisting of three regions: Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia.

11. Belgium is a constitutional monarchy. The power of the monarch has always been very limited .
The role of the monarch became more important when Belgium was officially divided between
Dutch-speaking Flanders and Francophone Wallonia. As a result of this the king has been
forced to play a greater role as mediator between the two factions in the formation of
governments.

15. HISTORY OF POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC THOUGHT

16. FINANCIAL MARKETS: THE CITY OF LONDON

17. YOUR COUPON
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