Even though the United Kingdom itself is considered a sovereign country, it comprises four different countries. The four countries that make up the United Kingdom are England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. All of the countries that make up the United Kingdom have their own cultures, traditions, identities, and different accents. Each of these countries has its flag too.
London is both the capital of England as well as the capital of the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland. Cardiff is the capital of Wales, and Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland. Even though only these countries make up the United Kingdom, you may be wondering now what Great Britain is.
Great Britain is not a country. It is not a political institution as well. Rather, it is a geographical term. Great Britain refers to the island that consists of the countries of England, Scotland, and Wales. It separates the United Kingdom from the European mainland. Northern Ireland is not considered to be a part of Great Britain because it is not located on the island of Great Britain, rather it is located on the island of Ireland. Ireland is an island that consists of two countries, the Republic of Ireland (officially named Ireland), and Northern Ireland.
Another important thing to note is that the country of Northern Ireland should not be confused with the Republic of Ireland. Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are located on the same island, but both of them are not one country. The Republic of Ireland is a sovereign state while Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom. Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland.
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