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History
England's history—especially during its
empire years—had a tremendous influence
worldwide. It provided the basis for many of the
traditions of its former colonies and gave them
the English language (which is rapidly becoming
the world's common tongue). It also started the
Industrial Revolution, whose effect on the people
and the landscape is apparent throughout the country,
from the vestiges of early steam-powered mills
to the smoky, gray hulks of cities like Birmingham
and Manchester.
England is only one of four political divisions
that historically made up the U.K. or, more formally,
the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland (also encompassing Scotland and Wales).
The name "Great Britain" and the term
"British" refer to a geographic rather
than political division and should only be used
when making reference to the island comprising
England, Scotland and Wales. Neither it nor England
can be used interchangeably with U.K. (If you
think this is all just nit-picking, go ahead and
call a Scot an Englishman—and stand back.)
The 20th century was a troubled time for the
British: Two costly wars and the loss of empire
took their toll on the economy and the national
psyche. Many Britons still cling to their relationship
with the U.S., despite powerful social and economic
trends that lead toward closer integration with
continental Europe. (The British remain deeply
divided over such issues as the common European
currency, the euro.) Increased autonomy for Scotland
and Wales, combined with the signing of the peace
treaty in Northern Ireland, are inspiring still
further changes. While no one is predicting the
complete dissolution of the U.K., the coming years
will bring a sea of change in how the U.K. governs
itself and how it presents itself to the world.
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