England

England is a region of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Contrary to some uses and beliefs, England is not an independent nation state, although it is sometimes referred to as a country or 'home nation' in British culture. The other regions of the UK are Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Although these 'countries' have devolved governments, Enland is governed directly by the UK Parliament and government.

The capital remains London, and other major cities include Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Liverpool and Newcastle.

England does however qualify as a 'nation' in many major sports competitions, especially in football and rugby, and has its own team. In other sports, such as athletics, swimming and Olympic sports, the team is Great Britain (GB) or UK. When England are involved in an international match the UK national anthem God Save the King is sung.

The patron saint of England is St. George, and the cross of St George is used as a flag in appropriate occasions.