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Britain

Definition

Britain refers specifically to England and Wales; however it's often used interchangeably with 'United Kingdom', which includes Scotland and Northern Ireland too. It was one of the most powerful countries during 18th-19th centuries due its colonial empire.

Analogy

Consider Britain as your school's star athlete - they're influential, have lots of followers (colonies), are competitive (in trade & power), but also have rivals (other European powers).

Related terms

British Empire: At its height it was one of largest empires ever existed including territories in North America, Caribbean, Africa, Asia and Pacific. It was known for its phrase "the empire on which the sun never sets".

Industrialization: The process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on the manufacturing of goods. Britain was the birthplace of industrialization.

Colonialism: The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

"Britain" appears in:

Practice Questions (18)



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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.