Belgians facts for kids
Jean-Claude Van Damme, a famous Belgian actor
|
|
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| c. 11 million | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 Belgium 9,782,239(Belgian nationality only, 1 January 2010) |
|
 United States |
360,642 |
 Canada |
168,915 |
 France |
50,000-100,000 |
 Germany |
20,000-50,000 |
 Netherlands |
10,000-50,000 |
 Brazil |
6,000 |
| Languages | |
| Dutch, French, German | |
| Religion | |
| Predominantly Roman Catholic, with some Protestants | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Walloons, Flemish people, Dutch people, French people, Germans, Luxembourgers | |
Belgians are people who come from the Kingdom of Belgium. Belgium is a country located in Western Europe. It is known for its rich history, beautiful cities, and delicious food like waffles and chocolate. Belgians are a diverse group, speaking different languages and having unique cultural traditions.
Contents
Who are Belgians?
Belgium is a country with about 11 million people. Most Belgians live in Belgium, but many also live in other countries around the world. Large groups of Belgians can be found in the United States, Canada, France, and Germany.
Belgium is a "federal state." This means it has a central government, but also different regions that have their own powers. These regions are important because they often relate to the different languages spoken in Belgium.
Languages and Culture
Belgians speak three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
- Most people in the northern part of Belgium, called Flanders, speak Dutch. These people are often called Flemings.
- In the southern part, called Wallonia, most people speak French. These people are known as Walloons.
- A smaller group in the east of Belgium speaks German.
Even though they speak different languages, Belgians share many things. They are proud of their country's history and its contributions to art, science, and food.
What Do Belgians Eat?
Belgian food is famous worldwide!
- Belgian waffles are a popular sweet treat. There are different kinds, like the Brussels waffle and the Liège waffle.
- Chocolate is another Belgian specialty. Belgian chocolatiers (chocolate makers) are known for their high-quality, delicious chocolates.
- Fries (or "frites") are a national dish. Belgians often eat them with mayonnaise or other sauces.
- Mussels with fries is a classic Belgian meal.
Belgian Art and History
Belgium has a long and interesting history. It has been home to famous artists, like Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Peter Paul Rubens, who created beautiful paintings centuries ago. More recently, the comic artist Hergé created the famous character Tintin.
Belgium has also played an important role in European history. Its location has made it a crossroads for many cultures and events over time.
Famous Belgians
Many Belgians have become famous around the world.
- Jean-Claude Van Damme is a well-known actor from Belgium.
- Hercule Poirot, a fictional detective, is a famous Belgian character created by Agatha Christie.
- Many Belgian athletes, musicians, and scientists have also achieved international fame.
Images for kids
-
Map of the medieval County of Flanders. This was an important area in Belgian history.
-
Happy crowds greet British troops entering Brussels in 1944, celebrating freedom.
-
Belgian students at an event, showing the youth of Belgium.
Learn More
In Spanish: Belgas para niños
