THE UNITED KINGDOM
Thursday, 12 October 2023 21:49
► BASIC FACTS
located in north-western Europe on the island of Great Britain (separated from mainland Europe by the English
Channel)
+ northern part of the Northern Ireland
COUNTRIES
1. England - London
2. Wales - Cardiff
3. Scotland - Edinburgh
4. Northern Ireland - Belfast
It occupies two islands in the British Isles: the island of Great Britain, which is the largest island (England, Scotland,
Wales) and the north-eastern part of the island of Ireland, known as Northern Ireland
It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the North Sea to the east
► LANDSCAPE
diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, mountains, rugged coastlines, and fertile valleys
► ENGLAND
the landscape features vast plains (such as the East Anglian Fens), and upland areas (like the Pennines)
► SCOTLAND
is known for its stunning highlands, (including the famous Loch Ness and the Grampian Mountains)
► WALES
has beautiful national parks (such as Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons), as well as picturesque coastal areas.
► NORTHERN IRELAND
showcases scenic landscapes like the Giant's Causeway and the Mourne Mountains
► CLIMATE
The UK has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers
w The Gulf Stream a warm ocean current, influences the climate, providing milder temperatures than expected for
its latitude
w The weather can be changeable and unpredictable, with clouds and rain showers common
w Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in western regions
w The south and southeast regions generally experience slightly warmer and drier conditions than the north and
west
► HISTORY
first inhabitants: tribes from Europe (3, 500 - 3 000 BC)
home: south of England - Stonehenge (huge circle of standing stones)
England: after Anglo-Saxon tribes (from Germany, Denmark, Netherland)
► POLITICAL SYSTEM
constitutional monarchy
head of state + 15 other Commonwealth countries: King Charles III
w head of church and head of armed forces
w more of symbolic role:
- represents the country
- symbol of national unity
- performs many official duties
Parliament - Westminster
housed in Palace of Westminster
legislative power - two chambers:
○ the House Commons - members (MPs) are elected every five years
- leader of the party which wins the most seats in the general election becomes Prime Minister + forms
the Government which has executive power
- Prime Minister: Rishi Sunak (10th Downing Street)
○ the House of Lords - peers not elected (appointed by King) and unpaid
UNION JACK
the national flag of the United Kingdom
□ symbolises the administrative union of the countries of the United Kingdom
□ made up of the individual Flags of three of the Kingdom's countries all united under one Sovereign
- the countries of England, of Scotland and of 'Northern Ireland'
- as Wales was not a Kingdom but a Principality it could not be included on the flag
PLACES OF INTEREST
Saturday, 11 May 2024 22:03
► LONDON
capital city of the United Kingdom
□ one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world
LANDMARKS:
◊ Buckingham Palace
home of the monarch
- national & royal celebrations
- Changing the Guard Ceremony
◊ Palace of Westminster
meeting place for both Houses (of Common and of Lords) = Parliament
location: north bank of the River Thames - central London
◊ Elizabeth Tower
Great Bell - nickname Big Ben
- named after Sir Benjamin Hall
location: north end of the Palace of Westminster
◊ Tower Bridge
accessible to both pedestrians and vehicles
- central pair of bascules = can open = allow ships to enter
◊ Tower of London
historic castle
- primary purpose: royal residence (used to be a prison)
◊ The London Eye
observation Ferris wheel
location: south bank of the River Thames
◊ Greenwich Meridian
a geographical reference line
- passes through the Royal Observatory
◊ Westminster Abbey
◊ St. Paul's Cathedral
◊ Trafalgar Square
◊ The British Museum
◊ The National Gallery
► COTTAGE
a traditional countryside dwelling, often with a cosy floor plan
□ charming details that look like they've been plucked right out of storybook
□ traditional building materials, like thatched roofs, stone, brick, and wood
□ often a chimney that is the centrepiece of the home
► LOCH NESS
large, deep freshwater lake located in the Scottish Highlands
legend: the Loch Ness Monster is a legendary creature said to inhabit the depths
of Loch Ness
→ reports of sightings and alleged encounters with Nessie date back centuries
→ descriptions varying from a large aquatic reptile to a serpentine creature
► UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD
seat of the oldest English university
□ one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world
□ founded in the 12th century
□ campus is characterized by its historic buildings and beautiful gardens
□ rich tradition of ceremonies, rituals, and events, including formal dinners,
academic processions, and annual events such as May Day celebrations
□ famous alumni include Stephen Hawking, Oscar Wilde, J.R.R. Tolkien
► BRIGHTON PIER
a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction located in Brighton, England
□ also known as the Palace Pier
□ features Victorian-era architecture with decorative ironwork and elaborate
detailing
□ amusement rides such as roller coasters, carousels, and thrill rides, as well
as arcade games, carnival stalls
► STONEHENGE
a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England
□ the monument's design incorporates various astronomical alignments,
suggesting a possible connection to the movements of celestial bodies
□ a UNESCO World Heritage Site
► EDINBURGH
capital city of Scotland
□ the second most populous city after Glasgow
□ Old Town + New town: listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Side
- Edinburgh Castle
- National Museum of Scotland
- Fringe: world’s largest annual international arts festival
► 10th Downing Street
official residence and office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
► CAMBRIDGE
the second oldest English university
COUNTRIES
Thursday, 18 January 2024 21:40
► ENGLAND
England is a country located in the southern part of the island of Great Britain, which is part of the larger United
Kingdom (UK). It shares borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west.
• Diverse landscape
including rolling hills, plains, coastal areas, and urban centres. Its capital and largest city is London, which is
a global hub for finance, culture, and commerce. English is the primary language spoken, and the country
follows the British Pound Sterling as its currency.
• Cultural Influence
English literature, including renowned authors like William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles
Dickens, has made a lasting impact on the literary world. English music, particularly rock and pop genres,
has also had a global influence.
• Industrial Revolution
England played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, which led to significant advancements in
manufacturing, technology, and transportation. This period transformed England into an industrial
powerhouse and set the stage for modern industrialization.
• Education
England has a renowned education system, including prestigious universities such as the University of
Oxford and the University of Cambridge. These institutions are recognized worldwide for their academic
excellence.
► SCOTLAND
situated in the northernmost part of the island of Great Britain, sharing a border with England to the south and
surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, and the Irish Sea.
• EDINBURGH
the capital of Scotland which is known for its historic and cultural significance, including the iconic
Edinburgh Castle and the annual Edinburgh Festival.
• GLASGOW
the largest city in Scotland, renowned for its industrial heritage, vibrant arts scene, and Victorian
architecture. It hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014.
• Landscape
Scotland boasts diverse and breath-taking landscapes, including rugged mountains (such as the Highlands),
stunning lochs (including Loch Ness), picturesque islands (like the Isle of Skye), and beautiful coastline.
• Culture
rich cultural heritage with influences from Celtic, Gaelic, and Norse traditions. It is famous for its bagpipes,
kilts, tartans, and traditional Scottish dances like the Highland fling.
• History
a history of clans, which were social units based on kinship and loyalty. Many clans have distinct tartans and
associated surnames, and they played a significant role in Scottish history.
• Whisky
Scotland is renowned for its whisky production. Scotch whisky is internationally recognized for its quality
and diversity, with different regions producing distinct flavours and characteristics.
• Loch Ness
a large freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, is famous for its mythical creature, the Loch Ness Monster
or "Nessie." The legend and search for Nessie have attracted tourists and enthusiasts for decades.
► WALES
a country located in the western part of the United Kingdom. It shares its eastern border with England and is
surrounded by the Irish Sea to the north and west
• diverse landscape, characterized by mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and a rugged coastline.
• relatively small in size compared to its neighbouring countries
• CARDIFF
the capital and largest city of Wales, situated in the south-eastern part of the country
• Culture
Wales has a rich cultural heritage and a distinct identity. The Welsh language, known as Cymraeg, is widely
spoken, and many cultural traditions and festivals are celebrated throughout the year. The country has a
strong sense of national pride, often symbolized by the iconic red dragon on the Welsh flag.
► NORTHERN IRELAND
region located in the north-eastern part of the island of Ireland
• shares a border to the south with the Republic of Ireland and is part of the United Kingdom
• it is bounded by the republic of Ireland, the Irish Sea, the North Channel, and the Atlantic Ocean
BELFAST
the capital and largest city
• known for its industrial heritage, shipbuilding, and cultural scene
- several notable landmarks, including the iconic Titanic Belfast museum
• agriculture is important, with most farm income derived from livestock
• the region is known for its expertise in aerospace, engineering, and digital technologies
• Additionally, Northern Ireland has become an attractive filming location for many TV series and movies
due to its scenic landscapes and historic sites.
STEREOTYPES & FAMOUS PEOPLE
Wednesday, 11 October 2023 22:06
Foreigners often have either specific notions of what they think the British are like or, in desperation, wish for an unified picture of
the nation character. The emphasis should perhaps be more upon an examination of diversity in British life, coupled with an
appreciation that British society is constantly changing.
It is difficult if not impossible to typify a single individual by assumed British stereotypes, and even more problematic when the
British entity is divided into English, Welsh, Scottish, and Northern Irish components.
STEREOTYPES
• tee-drinking
• love standing in queues
• always talking about weather
• accent and pronunciation
• dry sense of humour
• politeness - "keep calm and carry on"
• perception of the Brits as exceedingly polite - often using phrases like “thank you” and “please” excessively - while
politeness is valued, it varies from person to person
• soccer obsession - immensely popular in the UK - Brits are die-hard soccer fans - many enjoy sport not everyone is a fan
• obsessed with royal family - historical and cultural significance
• pubs and beer culture
• reputation of British food for being bland and unpleasant - doesn’t reflect the diversity and improvement in the UK’s food
scene in recent years
• Sherlock Holmes - fictional character created by Arthur Conan Doyle - sometimes associated with the idea that all Brits are
brilliant detectives
• formality - perception of the Brits as being overly formal and reserved - manners in royal family
British people have often and traditionally been characterised as tolerant and somewhat lazy, with happy-go-lucky attitude to
events and institutions, and having a capacity to muddle through difficulties. But that changed after year 1980, just after the
Conservative government had started the first of its three successive periods in office.
► FAMOUS PEOPLE
There have been many famous people from Great Britain. Some notable figures include:
1. William Shakespeare - renowned playwright and poet
2. Sir Isaac Newton - mathematician, physicist, and astronomer
3. Sir Winston Churchill - former British Prime Minister and statesman
4. Sir Alexander Fleming - scientist who discovered penicillin
5. The Beatles - iconic rock band from Liverpool
6. J.K. Rowling - author of the Harry Potter series
ROYAL FAMILY
□ Queen Elizabeth II. - the longest-reigning monarch in British history
□ Prince Albert
□ Princess Diana
□ Prince William and Harry
□ King Charles III. - head of state + 15 other Commonwealth countries
TRADITIONS
Thursday, 12 October 2023 22:27
• a long-established custom or belief
w that has been passed on from one generation to another
HOLIDAY
an extended period of leisure and recreation, especially one spent away from home or in travelling
SAINT PATRICK'S DAY - Ireland's national holiday
takes place on the 17th March - the day he died
symbols: shamrock, leprechauns, pot of gold, green colour
w observes the death of the patron saint of Ireland
w St Patrick parade (Scotland, Ireland, USA, Birmingham)
green colour
w brings good luck
w it's invisible to leprechauns - they like to pinch anyone they see
w honour to Irish ancestry
► EASTER
celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ (beginning of spring)
w church services + family gatherings
w easter hunt - searching for eggs
w Hot cross bun - traditional sweet pastry
► CHRISTMAS
most celebrated holiday in the UK
w takes places on the 25th of December - Father Christmas
□ something made of: meat, fish, flour, potatoes, butter, eggs
+ cranberry sauce, Brussel sprouts, Yorkshire pudding
+ Hot Cross buns
► BOXING DAY - 26.12.
giving others boxes (clothes, pillows, food, toys) -> they can not afford
w giving things to those who need them
► BONFIRE NIGHT - Guy Fawkes Night
British holiday celebrated on November 5th
w commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 when a group of Catholic conspirators including Guy Fawkes
attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I of England
w typically involves lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks to symbolize the shocking plot
w portraits or effigies of Guy Fawkes knows as "guys" are often burned on the bonfires
NOWADAYS
w festive occasion with various events including food, music and entertainment
w observed to remember the importance of parliamentary democracy and rule of law, as well as the preservation of the
monarchy
w has become cultural tradition with historical and entertainment elements
► REMEMBERANCE DAY
November 11th
w a day of national observance to honour the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in times of war
w is marked by a two-minute silence at 11am, and by the wearing of poppies
► CHEESE ROLLING
involves a ball of Double Gloucester cheese and a crowd willing to chase it for fun
► MORRIS DANCING
a traditional English folk dance that is performed by groups of dancers dressed in colourful costumes
• pub culture
→ English pubs are known for their cosy atmosphere, traditional ales, and socializing. Additionally, England has a strong
tea-drinking culture, and "afternoon tea" is a popular tradition.
• kilts and tartans
• tea with milk (black)
INDUSTRY & AGRICULTURE
Thursday, 18 January 2024 21:54
An economy: a system that deals with production, distribution, consumption
and trade of goods and services. The UK’s economy has two main pillars:
industry and agriculture.
Industry
includes sectors like services, manufacturing, construction and tourism. From
services the most important are banking, finance and insurance.
The key positions belong to ironwork, steelwork, electrotechnical, textile, food
industry and means of transport /cars, boats, planes/.
For instance:
w car brands: Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, Land Rover
w chocolates: Cadbury, KitKat
w drinks: Lipton tea
w shops: Tesco, Sainsbury's, Costa Coffee, Shell plc
w clothing: Next, John Lewis, Primark, ASOS, Burberry, Vivienne
Westwood
w other: British Airways, O2 company, BBC, Durex
The main capital city has played an important role in GB's industry for
centuries. While manufacturing in the city has changed, it remains a part of
London's economic foundations. Thanks to fame and tourism, London is the
most developed town in the UK these days.
The UK’s agriculture may evoke delightful green and pleasant land imagery, but
in reality it is an economic powerhouse, highly mechanized and partly
responsible for the UK’s global success in a competitive global market.
Despite the UK's unpredictable weather, the UK has a pretty good climate for
growing food.
The main crops that are grown: wheat, barley, oats, potatoes and sugar
beets
The most farmed animal: cattle.
The number of cattle and calves rises every year and now stands at 9.6 million
animals. The perfectly organized sheep system is also unique to the UK, the
huge ranges, landscapes and terrains are designed to host approximately 90
different sheep breeds and crosses. In addition to animal breeding, for UK is
typical fishing, the most common fish in UK's lakes is carp.
BREXIT
Thursday, 18 January 2024 21:35
THE BREXIT PROCESS
In 2016, a referendum was held in the UK, in which 51.9% of voters chose to leave the EU. This
triggered a series of events:
Triggering Article 50: Beginning the formal process of withdrawal.
Negotiating the Withdrawal Agreement: Over the course of several years, the UK and the EU
negotiated the terms of the UK's withdrawal.
Transition Period: The UK officially left the EU on 31.1. 2020, but a transition period was in
place until 31.12. 2020, during which existing arrangements continued while both sides
negotiated their future relationship.
PROS FOR THE UK:
Regaining Sovereignty: The UK regained control over its laws, borders, and trade policy, as it is
no longer bound by EU regulations
Control over Immigration: The UK now has the ability to implement its own immigration
policies, independent of EU freedom of movement rules
Global Trade Opportunities: The UK has the flexibility to negotiate its own trade agreements
with non-EU countries.
CONS FOR THE UK
Economic Disruption: New trade arrangements with the EU and other partners has caused
economic disruption, for businesses dealing with EU countries
Loss of Single Market Access: The UK no longer benefits from frictionless trade with the EU,
potentially impacting industries heavily reliant on EU markets
Uncertain Future Relations: While a trade agreement was reached, the long-term relationship
between the UK and the EU remains subject to change and negotiation
Schengen Area: UK was never part of the Schengen Area, which is a separate agreement
regarding passport-free travel and common visa policies among EU member states.
