The United Kingdom (UK) is a country located in northwestern Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Its capital and largest city is London.

The UK has a long and rich history, and has been a major player in world events for centuries. It was a leading colonial power in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and played a key role in both World Wars. Today, the UK is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the G7, the G20, NATO, and the World Trade Organization, among other international organizations.a