UK Flag and Country History

The English-Speaking World

• The flag of the United Kingdom is called the Union Jack.
• The United Kingdom originally included Ireland, but since 1922, it only includes England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Country Flags and Symbols

• England's flag features a red cross on a white background (Cross of St. George).
• Scotland's flag features a white saltire on a blue background (Cross of St. Andrew).
• Northern Ireland's flag features a red saltire on a white background (Cross of St. Patrick).
• Wales' national symbol is the daffodil.
• Scotland's national symbol is the thistle.
• England's national symbol is the rose.
• Ireland's national symbol is the shamrock.
• Canada's national symbol is the maple leaf.

Countries and Capitals

• The capital of Australia is Canberra.
• The capital of Canada is Ottawa.

Historical Figures and Events

• George Washington was the first president of the USA.
• America was discovered in 1492.
• Australia was discovered by James Cook in 1770.
• Nelson Mandela was the first black president of South Africa.

Cultural Events and Traditions

• Eisteddfod is a traveling art festival in Wales, celebrating Welsh literature, music, and performance.
• The festival was first identified as a bardic tradition in the 6th century and aims to further the Welsh language.
• Kilt accessories include shoelaces, a knife, and a cravat.
• Irish stepdance is a traditional Irish dance characterized by a stiff upper body and quick foot movements.
• Riverdance is a theatrical show consisting of traditional Irish music and dance.
• Feises are vibrant dance competitions for young people.

Countries' Features and Differences

• The United States has a president and two main political parties.
• Canada has a prime minister and five political parties.
• The US uses the American dollar, while Canada uses the Canadian dollar.
• The US has a higher crime rate and a culture of gun ownership, whereas Canada is considered safer.
• The US and Canada have different spellings and vocabulary (e.g., "color" vs. "colour", "z" vs. "zi").
• The national animal of the US is the eagle, while Canada's national animal is the beaver.

Australia and Aboriginal Culture

• The Stolen Generation refers to the forced removal of Aboriginal children from their families by the Australian government between 1905 and the 1970s.
• National Sorry Day is an annual holiday to acknowledge the historical persecution of Aboriginals and raise awareness of indigenous populations.
• Aboriginal tools include the boomerang (hunting) and didgeridoo (music).
• Aboriginal "dreaming" refers to legends and oral traditions that explain their way of life and the world around them.
• The Aboriginal population makes up approximately 2.5% of Australia's population.