The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. Comprised of four countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—the UK has a rich history that has significantly influenced global politics, culture, and economics. London, the capital city, is one of the world's leading financial centers and a hub for arts and education. The UK is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the rolling hills of the English countryside. It has a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy, where the monarch serves as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The UK played a crucial role in the development of the modern world through the Industrial Revolution and the expansion of the British Empire. Today, it continues to be a major player on the global stage, involved in international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the Commonwealth of Nations.
