The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign country located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with its own distinct culture, history, and legal systems. The capital, London, is one of the world’s leading financial and cultural centers. The UK is known for its rich history, including the British Empire, which was once the largest in the world. Its political system is a constitutional monarchy, with a royal family and a parliamentary democracy. Today, the UK is known for its contributions to arts, science, and technology.