What Countries Make Up the United Kingdom?

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, established by the Acts of Union 1707 and 1800, comprises four constituent countries:

• England
• Scotland
• Wales
• Northern Ireland

Great Britain is the largest island, containing England, Scotland, and Wales. The UK also includes numerous smaller islands. Each constituent country has its own distinct legal, educational, and (to varying degrees) political systems, while sharing a single sovereign parliament in Westminster.