The United Kingdom is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe, comprising four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Established by the Acts of Union in 1707 and 1800, which united England, Scotland, and Ireland under a single monarchy, the U.K. has played a pivotal role in world history, notably as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and the center of the British Empire, which at its height spanned across numerous continents. Known for its constitutional monarchy, parliamentary democracy, and significant contributions to literature, science, and philosophy, the U.K. remains a major political, cultural, and economic power, although it has faced contemporary challenges including Brexit, its 2020 exit from the European Union, and debates over Scottish independence.
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