23 January 1579 (the northern provinces of the Low Countries conclude the Union of Utrecht breaking with Spain; on 26 July 1581 they formally declared their independence with an Act of Abjuration; however, it was not until 30 January 1648 and the Peace of Westphalia that Spain recognized this independence)
9 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
Religions
Roman Catholic 30%, Dutch Reformed 11%, Calvinist 6%, other Protestant 3%, Muslim 5.8%, other 2.2%, none 42% (2006)
Sunni Muslim 85%, Shia Muslim 5%, other 10% (2003 est.)
Languages
Dutch (official), Frisian (official)
Tajik (official), Russian widely used in government and business
Exports
machinery and equipment, chemicals, fuels; foodstuffs
