In Hetalia, is HRE actually Germany as a child?

I've heard this rumor all over the place and I'm still not sure if it's true. While it would explain a LOT, it might turn out to be one of those "Axel is Reno's Nobody" rumors where it makes sense but it's still false. (and please don't start a big comment fight over whether or not the Axel/Reno thing is true, Square Enix themselves have said that it's not) I mean, HRE and Germany DO look alike, sort of...same shade of hair, same eye color, same pale-ish skin...and the emotional connection to Italy...but can anyone tell me for sure if it's true or not?