Key Facts: UK and USA Geographical and Historical Context

Geographical, Historical, and Cultural Framework of English-Speaking Nations

English is spoken as a first language in countries such as the United Kingdom (UK), the Republic of Ireland, the USA, and Canada. In many other nations, English serves as an official language alongside a local tongue (e.g., India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Israel). This document concentrates on two of the closest and most important countries: the UK and the USA.

The United Kingdom (UK)

General Data: The United Kingdom

Its complete name is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It is formed by four constituent countries:

• England
• Wales
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland

The UK covers an area of approximately 245,000 km² and has around 60 million inhabitants.

The Union Jack Flag

The flag of the UK, known as the Union Jack, is formed by three superimposed crosses:

• The straight red cross of St. George (Patron Saint of England).
• The diagonal white cross of St. Andrew (Patron Saint of Scotland).
• The diagonal red cross of St. Patrick (Patron Saint of Ireland).

Government and Religion

The UK operates under a constitutional monarchy. The Head of State is the Sovereign Monarch, while the Head of Government is the Prime Minister. The official religion of the country is represented by the Anglican Church. Historically, the UK belonged to the European Union since 1973.

Geographical Framework of the UK

England

The Pennine Mountains cross England. The highest peak is Scafell Pike, standing at 978m. The most important river is the Thames (flowing through London).

Wales

Wales is situated in a very mountainous region. The most important river is the River Dee.

Scotland

Major cities include Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee. The main river is the River Tweed.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is home to Lough Neagh, the biggest lake in the UK, covering approximately 390 km².

Climate and Vegetation

The climate is moderate. The average annual temperature ranges between 5°C in the north of Scotland and 11°C in the south of England. The most abundant natural vegetation consists of woods of mixed leaf.

Historical Framework of Britain

The history of Britain can be divided into the following periods:

1. Pre-historic Britain (before 43 AD)
2. Roman Times (43–409)
3. The Dark Ages (409–1066)
4. The Middle Ages (1066–1485)
5. The Tudors (1485–1603)
6. The Stuarts (1603–1714)
7. The Georgians (1714–1837)
8. Modern Britain (1914–present)

Cultural Background of the UK

Main features of British culture include:

• British people are often characterized as hard-working, serious, and responsible.
• A strong emphasis is placed on personal privacy.
• Charitable giving is highly valued.

Popular festivals and holidays include:

• Christmas Day
• Boxing Day
• Halloween
• Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night)

The United States (USA)

General Data: The United States

The United States forms a Federal Republic composed of a national government and 50 state governments.