THE UNITED KINGDOM

The United Kingdom




Some people callit Britain.Others say Great Britain.Many people mistakenly call the whole country England.But is real name is a mounthful: the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.That’s why it’s usually just called the United Kingdom, or UK for short.

The United Kingdom is country made up four parts:England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.For centuries, it was ruled by kings and gueens.The United Kingdom is still a monarchy, although today its power is moestly symbolic.

England is the biggestpart.Each part was once ruled separately.London is the capital of the United Kingdom.It’s located in England and it’s the biggest city in Europe.More than 7 million people live there.

When you’re in London,don’t forget to visit Buckingham Palace.This famous palace is the London residence of the British monarch.Guards carefully watch over the palace grounds.Tourists enjoy watching the changing of the guards.

The queen now.Queen Elizabeth II, has very little power when compared with the earlier English kings and queens.Today,an elected prime minister and Parliament hold most government power.But Elizabeth II is popular with her people.You’ll find her image on every British stamp,banknote,and coin.

The United Kingdom is the birthplace of the English language.Today,English is spoken in more part of the world than any other language.

English is considered one the world’s richest language.It has more than than half a million words! Why so many? Because many different people settled in Britain over the centuries, and each group added their own words.

The United Kingdom has produced many great writers William Shakesperare was a great playwright and poet from England.Shakespeare wrote many famous plays, including “Romeo and Juliet”.