Hetalia (made up of the words for useless + italy) is the story of the countries of the world made into people, carrying with them that nation's stereotypes. The main setting is the WWI/WWII era, but other scenes from history (such as the American Revolution) are sometimes depicted.

The story is centered around the Axis Powers, and the main character is Italy, who is a clumsy idiot who loves pasta and pizza. He is joined by the serious sausage-eating Germany and the polite and shy Japan. It is a gag manga that takes pieces of history and makes them funny, poking fun at the stereotypes and quirks of countries around the world.

*Taken from the AnimeSuki Forum