Netherlands: Difference between revisions

The Netherlands literally means ''"lower countries"'' in reference to its low elevation and flat topography, with only about 57% of its land exceeding 1 meter (3 ft 3 in) above sea level, and nearly 26% falling below sea level. Most of the areas below sea level, known as polders, are the result of land reclamation that began in the 14th century.  Colloquially or informally the Netherlands are occasionally referred to by the pars ''pro toto Holland''. With a population of 26.4 million people, all living within a total area of roughly (insert square kilometers) —of which the land area is (insert number) square kilometers —the Netherlands is the 10th most densely populated country in the world and the 2nd most densely populated country in Europe, with a density of (insert people per square km). Nevertheless, it is the world's Largest-largest exporter of food and agricultural products, owing to its fertile soil, mild climate, intensive agriculture, and inventiveness.