What methods and means were used to create the British nation-state of 'United Kingdom of Great Britain'? Elucidate (CLASS 10 SOCIAL SCIENCE 5 MARKS)
Dear Student
1) In Britain, the formation of Nation state was not the result of a sudden upheaval or revolution. It was the result of long drawn process.
2) There was no British nation prior to 18th century. The primary identities of the people who inhabited the British Isles were ethnic ones – such as English, Welsh, Scot or Irish
3) All of these ethnic groups had their own traditions and culture. As the English nation grew in wealth, importance and power, it was able to extend its influence over the other nations of the islands
4) The English Parliament which had seized power from the monarchy in 1688 at the end of protracted conflict was the instrument through which a nation – state with England at its centre came to be forged.
5) The Act of Union (1707) between Scotland and England that resulted in the formation of ‘United Kingdom of Great Britain’ meant that in effect England was able to impose its influence on Scotland
6) Scotland and Ireland were incorporated with United Kingdom and a new ‘British nation’ was forged through the propagation of English culture.
7) The symbols of New Britain – the British flag (Union Jack), the National Anthem, the English language – were actively promoted and the older nations survived only as subordinate partners in this union.
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