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The northern port city of Hamburg surrounds the Elbe River, which connects it to the North Sea.

time. The region played a key role in unifying Germany as a single economic and cultural entity, growing in power until most Southern German states decided to join the North German Confederation and form the German Empire in 1871. World War II Like much of the country, Northern Germany was heavily impacted by World War II, and many of its cities were seriously damaged by Allied bombing. However, in the years following the war, the region rebuilt and emerged as an economic powerhouse, with cities like Hamburg and Hanover becoming important centers of industry, commerce, and innovation. Hamburg Hamburg’s history as a Hanseatic city has also played a role in shaping its cuisine. The league imported dishes from across the continent that are still enjoyed today. For example, marzipan , a sweet confection made from almonds and sugar, was introduced to Hamburg by the Hanseatic merchants and is still a popular treat in the city.

Chapter 1: Northern Germany

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