The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom (UK) or Britain, is located in Northwestern Europe. It includes the island of Great Britain, the northeastern part of the island of Ireland, and several smaller islands within the British Isles. The UK is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the English Channel, the Celtic Sea, and the Irish Sea. The coordinates of the UK are approximately 55°N 3°W. The total area is 242,495 square kilometers, making it the 78th largest country in the world. Its capital and largest city is London.
Demographics
As of 2022, the UK’s population is estimated at around 66,971,411, making it the 22nd most populous country. The 2011 census showed that the population was composed of 87.1% White, 7.0% Asian, 3.0% Black, 2.0% Mixed, and 0.9% other ethnic groups. The UK has a diverse society with a rich mixture of cultures and languages. Besides English, regional and minority languages include Scots, Ulster Scots, Welsh, Cornish, Scottish Gaelic, Irish, and British Sign Language.
Government and Administration
The UK is a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy. The current monarch is Charles III, and the Prime Minister as of the time of the data is Rishi Sunak. The legislature is a bicameral Parliament, consisting of the House of Lords and the House of Commons. The UK’s formation dates back to several key events, including the Laws in Wales Acts (1535 and 1542), the Union of the Crowns (1603), the Treaty of Union (1706), and the Acts of Union of England and Scotland (1707) and of Great Britain and Ireland (1801).
Cultural and Historical Significance
The UK has a significant historical and cultural impact worldwide. It was the world’s first industrialized country and a dominant global power during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The British Empire, which was the largest in history, left a lasting influence on its former colonies, particularly in legal and political systems, culture, language, and sports. The UK’s cultural contributions in literature, music, and art are globally recognized.
Geography
The UK’s geography is varied, with the landscape ranging from highlands and lowlands to urban areas. It has a temperate maritime climate and is known for its green and rolling countryside. The country also features a range of biodiversity and ecosystems, represented in its several national parks and conservation areas.
Economy
The UK has the sixth-largest economy by nominal GDP and the ninth-largest by purchasing power parity. It is a highly developed country with a high standard of living and ranks high in human development. The UK’s economy is diversified, including sectors such as finance, manufacturing, services, and technology.