Bavaria

Bavaria (German: Bayern), southwest state in Germany. Its area is 27,239 sq mi (70,549 sq km) and its population exceeds 12 million. Munich is the capital and administrative center, and the site of most of the state's industry. Forestry and agriculture are also important in Bavaria. The region's borders have often changed, and it has seen many rulers, including the Romans in the 6th century B.C. and Charlemagne in the 9th century A.D. Bavaria became a kingdom in 1805 and a part of Germany in 1871. Following World War I it was a short-lived republic and then part of Germany again. After World War II Bavaria was part of West Germany.

See also: Germany.