United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) is located off the northwestern coast of Europe, northwest of France, and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the Irish Sea, and the English Channel. The UK is made up of England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and many smaller islands. The population is approximately 63 million people. Although the official language is English, other regional languages are recognised including Scots, Scottish Gaelic, Welsh, Irish, and Cornish.

The government is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy. The chief of state is Queen Elizabeth II, and the monarchy is hereditary. The head of government is a prime minister.

The UK was the world's first industrialized nation. During the 19th century, the British empire was at its peak and would have covered about one-fourth of the world. Two world wars and the withdrawal of the Irish Republic diminished the country's strength and helped bring about the end of the empire. After World War II, Britain had to recover and redefine its role in the world. Today the UK has the world's sixth largest economy with significant political, economic, and military power, and widespread cultural influence.