History & culture

We are an extremely diverse and progressive nation with a strong culture of social integration and tolerance. Britain was the dominant industrial and maritime power of the 19th century and played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

History

'Britain' itself didn't exist as an island until around 6500 BC. Read how we came to represent a leading centre for world trade and finance.

History
View of the Houses of Parliament across the River Thames in London - Credit: visitlondonimages/ britainonview

Government

The UK is a constitutional monarchy that is a representative democracy. The three elements that make up Parliament are the Queen, the House of Lords and the elected House of Commons.

Government
Commonwealth flag

The monarchy

The monarchy is the oldest institution of government. In Britain, our sovereign is not only Head of State, but also an important symbol of national unity.

The monarchy
Westminster Abbey

Religion

The official religion in Britain is Christianity as practised by the Anglican Church. However, Britain is a multi-faith society which seeks to promote religious tolerance and acceptance.

Religion
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