The UK is often abbreviated as United Kingdom, a country in northwestern Europe.
The United Kingdom may also be used to refer to the former United Kingdom, United Kingdom of Great Britain (United Kingdom) and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ( 1707-1801 and 1801-1927).
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is the 22nd most populous country in the world, with approximately 64.1 million residents by 2013. It is a democratic constitutional monarchy. London is a global city and financial center, and also the fourth largest metropolitan area in Europe. Other large metropolitan areas are centered around Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Glasgow. The current Queen Elizabeth II Queen has ruled since 1952. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland consists of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The following three countries have decentralized governments, Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man are not part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, these territories are autonomous, The British government is responsible for defense and international representation. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland also has 14 overseas territories, disputed territories, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, and the Indian Ocean Territory.
