The Kingdom of Denmark is geographically the smallest and southernmost Nordic country, and is part of the European Union. Communities have lived in Denmark since about 12,500 BC, with visible signs of farming beginning around 3,900 BC. The Romans had a presence there, as did Celtish cultures, but Danish settlers, who lend Denmark their name, were the most lasting.

Up to the 10th century the Danes were known as Vikings. Together with the Norwegians and Swedes, they colonized, raided and traded in all parts of Europe. Danish explorer Lief Ericson established settlements on behalf of Denmark as far away as Newfoundland, where a Norse (or Danish) community existed from 999 and 1001 AD - almost five hundred years before Columbus' discovery of the New World.

Denmark united and warred with neighboring Norway and Sweden throughout the Middle Ages, gained and lost Third World colonies, and eventually became a constitutional monarchy, with a queen (today, Margarethe II) and elected prime minister.

Capital: Copenhagen
Official Language: Danish
Population: 5,450,661
Currency: Danish Krone
What's Popular: Danish Architecture & Design