The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The subject of our first lecture focused on the history and demographics of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which consists of Scotland, Whales, England, and Northern Ireland. The lecturer, professor, Bob Craig, discussed the United Kingdoms historical and cultural roots.

He began lecture by describing the several envisions by the Romans, Anglo Saxons and later the Norman French. Next he ascertained some prominent cultural differences between the British and Americans. Lastly, he lectured about the modern and present United Kingdom. It was interesting to learn how united the United Kingdom really was and how many people living in the UK saw them selves as British.

The geography and population distribution was also rather interesting. Prior Bob Craig’s lecture I thought Ireland was more dependent from the UK and I wasn’t aware that thousands of years ago Great Britain was actually part of Europe. Today England’s population reaches about 51 million, Scotland 5 million, Wales 2.25 million and Northern Ireland 1.5 million. Because England is so densely populated it claims more than 90 percent of the United Kingdom’s citizens.

Bob Craig’s mention of British stereotypes, culture, social norms, and customs allowed me to familiarize myself with the new culture I set myself in for the semester. I was able to make comparisons to American culture and learn what was looked at as normal and unaccepted with in the British culture. I believe his lecture was a wonderful introduction to this new place I call home.