Australia Was Founded in 1788 (Australia Day Is National Holiday)

 Events
Jan 262024
 
Australia

Flag of Australia

Australia was founded in 1788. It may be the smallest continent, but it is the sixth largest country. Aborigines settled in Australia at least 40,000 years ago. The Dutch were the first Europeans to explore the area, and they called the continent New Holland. However, Captain James Cook declared in 1770 that the land belonged to Great Britain. Australia became a penal colony when 700 prisoners were transported there in 1788. Gold was discovered in 1851. It became a commonwealth in 1901. Idea: Australia is home to many marsupials. Children could research some of these animals and then make a play where Captain Cook explores Australia and finds these animals. Children could also learn more at: Australia.

Netherlands Celebrate King’s Day

 Events
Apr 272024
 

Flag of Netherlands

Netherlands celebrate King’s Day, a national holiday. King Willem-Alexander became the country’s monarch on April 30, 2013. The country celebrates his birthday on April 27. This European country bordering the North Sea is, according to the CIA World Factbook, about the size of New Jersey. The Dutch experience cool summers and mild winters. Almost 17 million people live there, and farmers grow grains, sugar beets, and potatoes. Amsterdam is the capital. Children can learn more at: Netherlands.