Difference Between Great Britain and England

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Difference Between Great Britain and England

The Great Britain and England are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different geographical and political entities. Here is the key difference between Great Britain and England:

1. Geographical Scope

England

  • England is part of the United Kingdom (UK).
  • It is located in the southern part of the island of Great Britain.
  • It has borders Scotland to the north and Wales to the west.
  • The capital city is London.
Great Britain
  • The largest island in the British Isles.
  • Comprises three countries: England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • Does not include Northern Ireland or other smaller islands that are part of the UK.
2. Political Context

England
  • England is the one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom.
  • Has its own system of local government and cultural identity.
  • It does not have a separate parliament for national matters; these are handled by the UK Parliament in Westminster.
Great Britain
  • It refers to the collective territory of England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • No political entity named "Great Britain"; it is a geographical term.
  • The matters concerning Great Britain are handled within the broader political framework of the United Kingdom.
3. Historical Context

England
  • Has a long history as a distinct nation with its own monarchy and government.
  • Historically, England was a sovereign state before the union with Scotland and Wales.
Great Britain
  • This term came into use after the political union of England and Scotland in 1707, forming the Kingdom of Great Britain.
  • The Wales had been annexed by England in the 16th century and became part of this new kingdom.
4. Population and Area

England
  • The most populous country within the UK.
  • Approximately 56 million people as of recent estimates.
  • Covers an area of about 130,279 square kilometers (50,301 square miles).
Great Britain
  • The combined population of England, Scotland, and Wales is about 67 million.
  • Total area is about 229,848 square kilometers (88,745 square miles).

5. Key Points

England

  • A country within the United Kingdom.
  • It is located in the southern part of the island of Great Britain.
  • Capital is London.
  • Borders Scotland and Wales.
Great Britain
  • The largest island in the British Isles.
  • Comprises three countries: England, Scotland, and Wales.
  • A geographical term, not a political entity.