British victory
114-418: [REDACTED] British Empire British estimates :- 5th Gurkhas :- 20th Punjab Infantry :- 24th Hazara Mountain Battery :- Bengal sappers and Miners :- Kashmir Imperial Service Infantry :- Speddings Pathans :- Punali levies :- Total :- Hunza-nagar sources :- 100+ Hunza-nagar sources :- The Hunza-Nagar Campaign was an armed conflict in 1891 fought by troops serving
228-828: A fair trial . The English monarchs, through inheritance of substantial territories in France and claims to the French crown, were also heavily involved in conflicts in France, most notably the Hundred Years' War , while the Kings of Scots were in an alliance with the French during this period. Early modern Britain saw religious conflict resulting from the Reformation and the introduction of Protestant state churches in each country. The English Reformation ushered in political, constitutional, social and cultural change in
342-521: A subpolar oceanic climate . Higher elevations in Scotland experience a continental subarctic climate and the mountains experience a tundra climate . The prevailing wind is from the southwest and bears frequent spells of mild and wet weather from the Atlantic Ocean, although the eastern parts are mostly sheltered from this wind. Since the majority of the rain falls over the western regions,
456-604: A welfare state was established, and a comprehensive, publicly funded healthcare system, the National Health Service , was created. The rise of nationalism in the colonies coincided with Britain's much-diminished economic position, so that a policy of decolonisation was unavoidable. Independence was granted to India and Pakistan in 1947. Over the next three decades, most colonies of the British Empire gained their independence, and many became members of
570-707: A caravan stop for travelers journeying through the Hindu Kush mountains en route to the Vale of Kashmir. This town is set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountain peaks like Rakaposhi, which stands at an altitude of approximately 25,000 feet (7,600 meters), and surrounded by glaciers such as the Ulter Nala. The town is also framed by deep gorges. Access to Karimabad is primarily via a hill road leading from Gilgit. The weather conditions in Karimabad are characterized by
684-480: A chilly and moderate climate. Karimabad is a city with a significant rainfall. Even in the driest month there is a lot of rain. Köppen and Geiger classify this climate as Dfb . The temperature here averages -5.4 °C | 22.3 °F. The annual rainfall is 860 mm | 33.9 inch. The floral vegetation in the wild consist of roses, pansies, lilies, zinnias, and cosmos, along with trees such as apple, apricot, walnut, mulberry, willow, fir, and poplar trees. The fauna recorded in
798-816: A land border with the Republic of Ireland ; otherwise, the United Kingdom is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean , the North Sea , the English Channel , the Celtic Sea , and the Irish Sea . The United Kingdom had an estimated population of over 68.2 million people in 2023. The capital and largest city of both England and the United Kingdom is London , whose wider metropolitan area is
912-399: A leading role in the movement to abolish slavery worldwide through the blockade of Africa and pressing other nations to end their trade with a series of treaties. In 1800 the parliaments of Great Britain and Ireland each passed an Act of Union, uniting the two kingdoms and creating the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland on 1 January 1801. After the defeat of France at the end of
1026-535: A period of peace, the legacy of British rule and the subsequent partition of British India have contributed to ongoing disputes and tensions between India and Pakistan over the region. The area's complex history, including pre-existing territorial claims and local dynamics, plays a significant role in the current situation. The British awarded three Victoria Crosses during this campaign. Note's:- Reference's:- United Kingdom The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland , commonly known as
1140-853: A policy of splendid isolation in Europe, and attempted to contain Russian influence in Afghanistan and Persia , in what came to be known as the Great Game . During this time, Canada , Australia and New Zealand were granted self-governing dominion status. At the turn of the century, Britain's industrial dominance became challenged by the German Empire and the United States . The Edwardian era saw social reform and home rule for Ireland become important domestic issues, while
1254-476: A possible link between the events. Algernon Durand responded to this attempt by dispatching soldiers to dismantle Hunza-controlled rope bridges and bolstering the Kashmiri garrison. Recognizing the potential for another attempt by Safdar Ali, possibly with Russian support, he remained vigilant. Safdar Ali subsequently succeeded in convincing the ruler of the relatively small state of Nagar to join him in resisting
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#17327806337951368-507: A result of a shortage of workers in the 1950s, the government encouraged immigration from Commonwealth countries . In the following decades, the UK became a more multi-ethnic society. Despite rising living standards in the late 1950s and 1960s, the UK's economic performance was less successful than many of its main competitors such as France, West Germany and Japan. The UK was the first democratic nation to lower its voting age to 18 in 1969. In
1482-811: A series of connected wars (including the English Civil War ) which led to the temporary overthrow of the monarchy, with the execution of King Charles I , and the establishment of the short-lived unitary republic of the Commonwealth of England , Scotland and Ireland. Although the monarchy was restored , the Interregnum along with the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and the subsequent Bill of Rights 1689 in England and Claim of Right Act 1689 in Scotland ensured that, unlike much of
1596-594: A series of steep canyons, facing sustained gunfire from Hunza-Nagar sharpshooters positioned in fortified structures called "sangars" located atop caves or rock formations. The first major obstacle they encountered was the stone fort of Nilt , belonging to the king of Nagar. The Asian castle, known for its durable construction, featured thick walls pierced only by tiny arrow slits. Algernon Durand's seven-pounder mountain guns, small cannons designed for mountain warfare, had limited impact against these defenses. Gurkha marksmen faced difficulty targeting defenders positioned within
1710-531: A spy for the Hunza Mir. After being interrogated by Durand's advisors, the individual reportedly revealed an alternative strategy: a surprise attack on the Chalt garrison involving Hunza fighters disguised as Gilgiti porters carrying supplies. These disguised individuals would gain entry to the fort and initiate an attack, allowing other Hunza forces to exploit the opportunity and breach the defenses. In response to
1824-520: A tense stalemate against the well-armed Hunza-Nagar troops stationed within the mountainous Hunza valley. Fortified positions made a direct assault nearly impossible. As winter approached and concerns regarding the impact on nearby tribes grew, the British forces opted for a siege strategy. They strengthened their own position and prepared for a protracted wait, engaging in daily skirmishes and reconnaissance to identify potential weaknesses. Estimates suggest
1938-593: A vantage point, they witnessed forces pouring through the gate, forcing the defenders to flee through hidden exits. The Nilt Fortress fell, with the British suffering six casualties compared to significantly higher losses on the Hunza-Nagar side. Later, Knight would meet Aylmer. Despite their initial defeat at Nilt, Hunza-Nagar forces continued to resist the invaders as they advanced towards the Hunza capital. In mid-December, they encountered an obstacle more formidable than
2052-483: Is even more precious to us than the strings of our wives pyjamas In response to the British ultimatums, Safdar Ali, the Khan of Hunza, demanded the return of Chalt, a disputed territory. He warned Algernon Durand, the British political agent, that any British incursion into Hunza would face resistance not only from Hunza but also potentially from China and Russia. Safdar Ali asserted that he had secured Russian support against
2166-481: Is only the one specific nominal term 'Great Britain' which invariably excludes Northern Ireland". The BBC historically preferred to use "Britain" as shorthand only for Great Britain, though the present style guide does not take a position except that "Great Britain" excludes Northern Ireland. The adjective "British" is commonly used to refer to matters relating to the United Kingdom and is used in law to refer to United Kingdom citizenship and nationality . People of
2280-538: Is ranked 2nd out of 180 countries in the Environmental Performance Index . A law has been passed that UK greenhouse gas emissions will be net zero by 2050. England accounts for 53 per cent of the UK, covering 50,350 square miles (130,395 km ). Most of the country consists of lowland terrain, with upland and mountainous terrain northwest of the Tees–Exe line which roughly divides
2394-599: Is sometimes used as a loose synonym for the United Kingdom as a whole. The word England is occasionally used incorrectly to refer to the United Kingdom as a whole, a mistake principally made by people from outside the UK. The term "Britain" is used as a synonym for Great Britain , but also sometimes for the United Kingdom. Usage is mixed: the UK Government prefers to use the term "UK" rather than "Britain" or "British" on its website (except when referring to embassies), while acknowledging that both terms refer to
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#17327806337952508-579: Is the Isle of Wight . Scotland accounts for 32 per cent of the UK, covering 30,410 square miles (78,772 km ). This includes nearly 800 islands , notably the Hebrides , Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands. Scotland is the most mountainous constituent country of the UK, the Highlands to the north and west are the more rugged region containing the majority of Scotland's mountainous land, including
2622-755: Is the highest peak in Wales. Wales has over 1,680 miles (2,704 kilometres) of coastline including the Pembrokeshire Coast . Several islands lie off the Welsh mainland, the largest of which is Anglesey ( Ynys Môn ). Baltit Karimabad ( كريم آباد ), formerly known as Baltit , is the capital of the Hunza District in Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan in the disputed Kashmir region. Karimabad
2736-588: The 1884 Reform Act championed by William Gladstone granting suffrage to a majority of males for the first time. The British population increased at a dramatic rate, accompanied by rapid urbanisation , causing significant social and economic stresses. By the late 19th century, the Conservatives under Benjamin Disraeli and Lord Salisbury initiated a period of imperial expansion in Africa , maintained
2850-534: The Atlantic slave trade , mainly between 1662 and 1807 when British or British-colonial slave ships transported nearly 3.3 million slaves from Africa. The slaves were taken to work on plantations , principally in the Caribbean but also North America . However, with pressure from the abolitionism movement , Parliament banned the trade in 1807, banned slavery in the British Empire in 1833, and Britain took
2964-650: The Battle of Culloden in 1746, after which the Scottish Highlanders were forcibly assimilated into Scotland by revoking the feudal independence of clan chiefs . The British colonies in North America that broke away in the American War of Independence became the United States . British imperial ambition turned towards Asia, particularly to India . British merchants played a leading part in
3078-996: The British Raj against the princely states of Hunza and Nagar in the Gilgit Agency (now part of the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan ). It is also known in Pakistan as the Anglo-Brusho War or Jangir-e-Lae . Colonel Algernon George Arnold Durand, the Political Administrator of the Gilgit Agency , undertook measures to strengthen British influence in the region. These efforts, aimed at furthering British strategic interests, involved infrastructure development initiatives such as road, telegraph, and mail system improvements. All
3192-663: The Cairngorms , Loch Lomond and The Trossachs and Ben Nevis which at 1,345 metres (4,413 ft) is the highest point in the British Isles. Wales accounts for less than 9 per cent of the UK, covering 8,020 square miles (20,779 km ). Wales is mostly mountainous, though South Wales is less mountainous than North and mid Wales . The highest mountains in Wales are in Snowdonia and include Snowdon ( Welsh : Yr Wyddfa ) which, at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft),
3306-607: The Chitral expedition . In the early 1900s, the British constructed an all-weather pony track connecting Gilgit to Skardu in Baltistan, which was under separate Dogra rule. This construction aimed to improve access to the Gilgit Agency for trade and communication purposes. However, Baltistan remained under independent political and administrative control. While the Hunza-Nagar campaign (now part of Gilgit-Baltistan) brought
3420-523: The Commonwealth of Nations . The UK was the third country to develop a nuclear weapons arsenal (with its first atomic bomb test, Operation Hurricane , in 1952), but the post-war limits of Britain's international role were illustrated by the Suez Crisis of 1956. The international spread of the English language ensured the continuing international influence of its literature and culture . As
3534-767: The European Convention on Human Rights . The UK remained a great power with global diplomatic and military influence and a leading role in the United Nations and NATO . The UK broadly supported the United States' approach to the " war on terror " in the early 21st century. British troops fought in the War in Afghanistan , but controversy surrounded Britain's military deployment in Iraq , which saw
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3648-583: The European Union (EU) in 1992, the UK was one of the 12 founding member states. From the late 1960s, Northern Ireland suffered communal and paramilitary violence (sometimes affecting other parts of the UK) conventionally known as the Troubles . It is usually considered to have ended with the 1998 Belfast "Good Friday" Agreement . Following a period of widespread economic slowdown and industrial strife in
3762-494: The Falkland Islands , leading to the 10-week Falklands War in which Argentine forces were defeated. The inhabitants of the islands are predominantly descendants of British settlers, and strongly favour British sovereignty, expressed in a 2013 referendum . From 1984, the UK economy was helped by the inflow of substantial North Sea oil revenues. Another British overseas territory, Gibraltar , ceded to Great Britain in
3876-545: The French Revolutionary Wars and Napoleonic Wars (1792–1815), the United Kingdom emerged as the principal naval and imperial power (with London the largest city in the world from about 1830). Unchallenged at sea , British dominance was later described as Pax Britannica ("British Peace"), a period of relative peace among the great powers (1815–1914) during which the British Empire became
3990-725: The Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland united under the Treaty of Union to create the Kingdom of Great Britain . The Acts of Union 1800 incorporated the Kingdom of Ireland to create the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in 1801. Most of Ireland seceded from the UK in 1922 as the Irish Free State , and the Royal and Parliamentary Titles Act 1927 created the present United Kingdom. The UK became
4104-650: The Labour Party emerged from an alliance of trade unions and small socialist groups in 1900, and suffragettes campaigned for women's right to vote. Britain was one of the principal Allies that defeated the Central Powers in the First World War (1914–1918). Alongside their French, Russian and (after 1917) American counterparts, British armed forces were engaged across much of the British Empire and in several regions of Europe, particularly on
4218-690: The Nilt Fort . On December 2nd, Captain Bradshaw led an attempt to rebuild the road across the Nilt Nala, aiming to attack the Nagari fortress of Thol on the opposite side. However, they encountered heavy gunfire from Hunza-Nagar forces and were compelled to retreat. Spedding's Pathans , initially shielded, also faced intense fire and were subsequently recalled. Another attack attempt on December 3rd proved unsuccessful. The British forces found themselves in
4332-647: The Representation of the People Act 1918 . After the war, Britain became a permanent member of the Executive Council of the League of Nations and received a mandate over a number of former German and Ottoman colonies. Under the leadership of David Lloyd George , the British Empire reached its greatest extent, covering a fifth of the world's land surface and a quarter of its population. By
4446-463: The Soviet Union formed in 1941, leading the Allies against the Axis powers . There were eventual hard-fought victories in the Battle of the Atlantic , the North Africa campaign and the Italian campaign . British forces played important roles in the Normandy landings of 1944 and the liberation of Europe . The British Army led the Burma campaign against Japan, and the British Pacific Fleet fought Japan at sea. British scientists contributed to
4560-452: The United Kingdom ( UK ) or Britain , is a country in Northwestern Europe , off the coast of the continental mainland . It comprises England , Scotland , Wales , and Northern Ireland . The UK includes the island of Great Britain , the north-eastern part of the island of Ireland , and most of the smaller islands within the British Isles , making up a total area of 94,354 square miles (244,376 km ). Northern Ireland shares
4674-449: The Western Front . The high fatalities of trench warfare caused the loss of much of a generation of men, with lasting social effects in the nation and a great disruption in the social order. Britain had suffered 2.5 million casualties and finished the war with a huge national debt. The consequences of the war persuaded the government to expand the right to vote in national and local elections to all adult men and most adult women with
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4788-408: The coastline paradox . It is connected to continental Europe by the Channel Tunnel , which at 31 miles (50 km) (24 miles (38 km) underwater) is the longest underwater tunnel in the world. The UK contains four terrestrial ecoregions: Celtic broadleaf forests , English Lowlands beech forests , North Atlantic moist mixed forests , and Caledonian conifer forests . The area of woodland in
4902-436: The largest protest in British history in opposition to the government led by Tony Blair . The Great Recession severely affected the UK economy. The Cameron–Clegg coalition government of 2010 introduced austerity measures intended to tackle the substantial public deficits. Studies have suggested that policy led to significant social disruption and suffering. A referendum on Scottish independence in 2014 resulted in
5016-512: The 16th century and established the Church of England . Moreover, it defined a national identity for England and slowly, but profoundly, changed people's religious beliefs. Wales was fully incorporated into the Kingdom of England , and Ireland was constituted as a kingdom in personal union with the English crown. In what was to become Northern Ireland, the lands of the independent Catholic Gaelic nobility were confiscated and given to Protestant settlers from England and Scotland. In 1603,
5130-401: The 1713 Treaty of Utrecht, is a key military base . A referendum in 2002 on shared sovereignty with Spain was rejected by 98.97% of voters in the territory. Around the end of the 20th century, there were major changes to the governance of the UK with the establishment of devolved administrations for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The statutory incorporation followed acceptance of
5244-406: The 1970s, the Conservative government of the 1980s led by Margaret Thatcher initiated a radical policy of monetarism , deregulation, particularly of the financial sector (for example, the Big Bang in 1986) and labour markets, the sale of state-owned companies (privatisation), and the withdrawal of subsidies to others. In 1982, Argentina invaded the British territories of South Georgia and
5358-476: The 5th century) united with the Picts to create the Kingdom of Scotland in the 9th century. In 1066, the Normans invaded England from northern France. After conquering England , they seized large parts of Wales , conquered much of Ireland and were invited to settle in Scotland, bringing to each country feudalism on the Northern French model and Norman-French culture. The Anglo-Norman ruling class greatly influenced, but eventually assimilated with,
5472-475: The British Raj took control of the Baltit Fort . The pursuit continued, leading to the infantry's capture of Nagar on the same day. As the British forces advanced, both Nagari and Hunza fighters surrendered. The Mir of Nagar remained in his city and was subsequently arrested, while the Mir of Hunza chose to flee and abandon his people. Dissatisfied with their leader's actions, the Hunzas informed British officers that they had sent forces in pursuit of him. Following
5586-459: The British and their Kashmiri allies. On December 1st, the British military campaign commenced. Following orders from Algernon Durand, engineers constructed a temporary bridge across the Hunza River, enabling the force to advance. Their objective was the mountain capital of Safdar Ali, Baltit (formerly known solely as Hunza). The troops encountered significant challenges during their advance. They navigated nearly vertical climbs and descents through
5700-414: The British, whom he characterized as militarily weaker. Additionally, reports from Kashgar indicated that he had sought financial and military aid from both the Russian consul and the Chinese governor. On November 29th, Algernon Durand, the British political agent, issued ultimatums to Raja Azur, Khan of Nagar, and Safdar Ali, Khan of Hunza. These ultimatums cited British concerns about Russian activities in
5814-464: The Brittonic area mainly to what was to become Wales , Cornwall and, until the latter stages of the Anglo-Saxon settlement, the Hen Ogledd (northern England and parts of southern Scotland). Most of the region settled by the Anglo-Saxons became unified as the Kingdom of England in the 10th century. Meanwhile, Gaelic speakers in north-west Britain (with connections to the north-east of Ireland and traditionally supposed to have migrated from there in
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#17327806337955928-400: The Gurkhas, the attacking force scaled the 1,200-foot cliff, achieving a momentary element of surprise against the Hunza-Nagar fighters. The defenders responded by throwing rocks down the steep slope, but these attempts proved ineffective. The attackers successfully reached a position near the sangars, outflanking the defenders and forcing them to retreat. Moving swiftly, the attackers repaired
6042-407: The Hasegawa Memorial Public School run by Japan, which are popular for girls. The economy is dependent on agriculture with crops such as corn (maize), fruits, and vegetables grown under irrigated conditions. An article on The Guardian ranked it as one of the five "Best Tourist Sites" in Pakistan. The landmarks around the town are the Baltit Fort , Queen Victoria Monument, Channel Walk and
6156-452: The Manhattan Project whose task was to build an atomic weapon. Once built, it was decided, with British consent, to use the weapon against Japan. The UK was one of the Big Three powers (along with the US and the Soviet Union) who met to plan the post-war world ; it drafted the Declaration by United Nations with the United States and became one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council . It worked closely with
6270-551: The Mir of Hunza's departure, under leadership of Wazir Khurram Shah (Trangfa Ganish) along with other notables negotiatied with the British Officers and thus Hunza was captured without further resistance and bloodshed on December 22nd. Within its fort, British forces discovered a vast arsenal of weapons and ammunition manufactured in Britain, Russia, France, and Belgium, along with stockpiles of locally produced gunpowder. Algernon Durand's column returned to Gilgit on January 11, 1892. British forces attempted to capture Safdar Ali, and with
6384-414: The Mir's palace. The location was known as a caravan resting stop, and for its slave trade. Baltit served as the capital of Hunza Valley for over 750 years, until the middle of the 20th century. After Pakistan became an independent country in 1947, the Hunza province controlled by the Mir voluntarily joined Pakistan. Earlier, the capital had been shifted from the area around Balit down to
6498-425: The Name of Great Britain". The term "United Kingdom" has occasionally been used as a description for the former Kingdom of Great Britain , although its official name from 1707 to 1800 was simply "Great Britain". The Acts of Union 1800 formed the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland . Following the partition of Ireland and the independence of the Irish Free State in 1922, which left Northern Ireland as
6612-411: The Normans conquered England . With the end of the Wars of the Roses the English state stabilised and began to grow in power, resulting by the 16th century in the annexation of Wales , the domination of Scotland , and the establishment of the British Empire . Over the course of the 17th century, the role of the British monarchy was reduced, particularly as a result of the English Civil War . In 1707,
6726-518: The Pamirs region and the need to secure passage through Hunza and Nagar to address the situation. They also emphasized the British desire to maintain the existing political structure and avoid interference in the internal affairs of the two states. In the spring of 1891, while stationed in Gilgit, Algernon Durand received reports that Safdar Ali, the Khan of Hunza, was planning an attack on a Kashmiri fort. These reports came shortly after news of Yanov's arrival in northern Hunza, leading to speculation about
6840-495: The Scottish electorate voting by 55.3 to 44.7% to remain part of the United Kingdom. In 2016, 51.9 per cent of voters in the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union . The UK left the EU in 2020. On 1 May 2021, the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement came into force. The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the UK's economy , caused major disruptions to education and had far-reaching impacts on society and politics in 2020 and 2021. The United Kingdom
6954-489: The Second World War damaged Britain's economic power and a global wave of decolonisation led to the independence of most British colonies. The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy . The UK has three distinct jurisdictions: England and Wales , Scotland , and Northern Ireland . Since 1999, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own governments and parliaments which control various devolved matters. A developed country ,
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#17327806337957068-430: The UK has the world's sixth-largest economy by nominal gross domestic product (GDP). It is a nuclear state , and is ranked fifth globally in military expenditure . The UK has been a permanent member of the UN Security Council since its first session in 1946. It is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations , Council of Europe , G7 , OECD , NATO , Five Eyes , AUKUS and CPTPP . British influence can be observed in
7182-484: The UK in 2023 is estimated to be 3.25 million hectares, which represents 13% of the total land area in the UK. Most of the United Kingdom has a temperate climate, with generally cool temperatures and plentiful rainfall all year round. The temperature varies with the seasons seldom dropping below 0 °C (32 °F ) or rising above 30 °C (86 °F). Some parts, away from the coast, of upland England, Wales, Northern Ireland and most of Scotland, experience
7296-433: The UK into lowland and upland areas. Lowland areas include Cornwall , the New Forest , the South Downs and the Norfolk Broads . Upland areas include the Lake District , the Pennines , the Yorkshire Dales , Exmoor , and Dartmoor . The main rivers and estuaries are the Thames , Severn , and the Humber . England's highest mountain is Scafell Pike , at 978 metres (3,209 ft) in the Lake District; its largest island
7410-402: The United Kingdom and that elsewhere "British government" is used at least as frequently as "United Kingdom government". The UK Permanent Committee on Geographical Names recognises "United Kingdom", "UK" and "U.K." as shortened and abbreviated geopolitical terms for the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in its toponymic guidelines; it does not list "Britain" but notes that "it
7524-411: The United Kingdom is 1339.7 hours, which is just under 30% of the maximum possible. The hours of sunshine vary from 1200 to about 1580 hours per year, and since 1996 the UK has been and still is receiving above the 1981 to 2010 average hours of sunshine. Climate change has a serious impact on the country. A third of food price rise in 2023 is attributed to climate change. As of 2022, the United Kingdom
7638-436: The United Kingdom use several different terms to describe their national identity and may identify themselves as being British , English , Scottish , Welsh , Northern Irish , or Irish ; or as having a combination of different national identities. Settlement by Cro-Magnons of what was to become the United Kingdom occurred in waves beginning by about 30,000 years ago. The island has been continuously inhabited only since
7752-491: The United Kingdom. The 1928 Equal Franchise Act gave women electoral equality with men in national elections. Strikes in the mid-1920s culminated in the General Strike of 1926 . Britain had still not recovered from the effects of the First World War when the Great Depression (1929–1932) led to considerable unemployment and hardship in the old industrial areas, as well as political and social unrest with rising membership in communist and socialist parties. A coalition government
7866-478: The United States to establish the IMF , World Bank and NATO . The war left the UK severely weakened and financially dependent on the Marshall Plan , but it was spared the total war that devastated eastern Europe. In the immediate post-war years, the Labour government under Clement Attlee initiated a radical programme of reforms, which significantly impacted British society in the following decades . Major industries and public utilities were nationalised ,
7980-401: The acquisition and settlement of overseas colonies , particularly in North America and the Caribbean. Though previous attempts at uniting the two kingdoms within Great Britain in 1606, 1667, and 1689 had proved unsuccessful, the attempt initiated in 1705 led to the Treaty of Union of 1706 being agreed and ratified by both parliaments. On 1 May 1707, the Kingdom of Great Britain was formed,
8094-485: The artisans brought by her. It was refurbished during Ayesho II's son's rule. Mir Nazim Khan got it refurnished with wall paper, curtains, fireplaces, balconies, and windows with tinted glass. The exterior of the fort was given a white wash. He also built a raised platform in the terrace to hold meetings of the council. Once the capital was moved to Karimabad, the fort was stripped of all its interior furnishings and decorations. Nazim Khan's son had moved to Karimabad in 1945.It
8208-471: The assistance of locals, many of his followers deserted him. Consequently, he was forced to flee across the border into China. Nazim Khan and Zafar Khan were installed as the new rulers of Hunza and Nagar, respectively. The regions brought under British control maintained loyalty to the British Indian government and retained a degree of autonomy under British rule. They provided valuable services during
8322-404: The circulation of information within the camp regarding the planned attack. This decision aimed to prevent knowledge of the plan reaching the Hunza-Nagar forces. Under the cloak of darkness, 50 Gurkhas and 50 Dogra soldiers scaled the Nilt Nala undetected by the Hunza-Nagar defenders. At dawn, supporting troops initiated a distracting attack, drawing heavy fire from the Hunza-Nagar forces. Led by
8436-553: The cover of nightfall. On December 9th, further reconnaissance missions and attacks were unsuccessful. However, they managed to establish observation posts to engage the enemy Lashkars. A Dogra soldier discovered a potential weakness in the Hunza-Nagar position: a steep slope inaccessible to their defensive fire. Meanwhile, maintaining supply lines for the British forces became increasingly challenging. In Captain Bradshaw's absence, Captain Mackenzie assumed command and decided to restrict
8550-736: The decades-long process of European integration , the UK was a founding member of the Western European Union , established with the London and Paris Conferences in 1954. In 1960 the UK was one of the seven founding members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), but in 1973 it left to join the European Communities (EC). In a 1975 referendum 67% voted to stay in it. When the EC became
8664-454: The doorway, creating a large cloud of dust and debris. Aylmer, his two subalterns, and Gurkha soldiers rushed into the fort, where close-quarters combat erupted. The attacking force faced challenges. Disoriented by the smoke and confusion following the detonation, the Gurkhas became caught in crossfire. Blinded by the smoke and misled by the sounds of battle, the main force continued firing upon
8778-483: The eastern parts are the driest. Atlantic currents, warmed by the Gulf Stream , bring mild winters, especially in the west where winters are wet and even more so over high ground. Summers are warmest in the southeast of England and coolest in the north. Heavy snowfall can occur in winter and early spring on high ground, and occasionally settles to great depth away from the hills. The average total annual sunshine in
8892-469: The first industrialised country and was the world's foremost power for the majority of the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the " Pax Britannica " between 1815 and 1914. At its height in the 1920s, the British Empire encompassed almost a quarter of the world's landmass and population, and was the largest empire in history . However, its involvement in the First World War and
9006-594: The first year, Britain and its Empire continued the war against Germany. Churchill engaged industry, scientists and engineers to support the government and the military in the prosecution of the war effort. In 1940, the Royal Air Force defeated the German Luftwaffe in the Battle of Britain . Urban areas suffered heavy bombing during the Blitz . The Grand Alliance of Britain, the United States and
9120-587: The formal control it exerted over its own colonies, British dominance of much of world trade meant that it effectively controlled the economies of regions such as East Asia and Latin America . Throughout the Victorian era , political attitudes favoured free trade and laissez-faire policies. Beginning with the Great Reform Act in 1832, Parliament gradually widened the voting franchise , with
9234-423: The fort was garrisoned by around 400 Lashkars. A reconnaissance mission attempted on December 8th proved unsuccessful. British forces planned a surprise attack on the Hunza-Nagar forces stationed at Nilt Nala on the same day. However, the attack was abandoned due to strong enemy fortifications and high casualties sustained during the initial assault. Pinned down by heavy fire, the British troops withdrew safely under
9348-416: The fort, drawing return fire. Lieutenant Boisragon crossed enemy lines to request support. The arrival of reinforcements shifted the battle's course and secured the stronghold. Initially obscured by smoke, the Hunza-Nagar forces soon realized that the battle had shifted inside the fort, while those remaining outside were unaware. Hearing cheers from within, they joined in with breathless support. Upon reaching
9462-614: The fort, which they claimed was on their territory. Algernon Durand maintained the fort's reinforcement and accelerated road construction. Nagar and Hunza viewed Durand's actions as an escalation and blocked mail from the British Resident in Chinese Turkmenistan from passing through their territory. British India interpreted this as a violation of the 1889 agreement with Hunza, specifically the clause guaranteeing free passage of mail. After issuing an ultimatum that
9576-428: The gate and attempted to relight the malfunctioning fuse. He faced further attacks from the opposing forces, resulting in severe hand injuries. Aylmer retreated to cover once more and waited for the detonation. The second attempt with the fuse was successful. Knight quoted:- We heard a tremendous explosion above the din of guns and musketry, and perceived volumes of smoke rising high into the air The explosion breached
9690-762: The global hegemon and adopted the role of global policeman. From 1853 to 1856, Britain took part in the Crimean War , allied with the Ottoman Empire against Tsarist Russia , participating in the naval battles of the Baltic Sea known as the Åland War in the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland , among others. Following the Indian Rebellion in 1857 , the British government led by Lord Palmerston assumed direct rule over India . Alongside
9804-403: The kingdoms of England, Scotland and Ireland were united in a personal union when James VI, King of Scots , inherited the crowns of England and Ireland and moved his court from Edinburgh to London; each country nevertheless remained a separate political entity and retained its separate political, legal, and religious institutions. In the mid-17th century, all three kingdoms were involved in
9918-581: The largest in Western Europe , with a population of 14.9 million. The cities of Edinburgh , Cardiff , and Belfast are the national capitals of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, respectively. The lands of the UK have been inhabited continuously since the Neolithic . In AD 43 the Roman conquest of Britain began; the Roman departure was followed by Anglo-Saxon settlement . In 1066,
10032-408: The last retreat of the ice around 11,500 years ago. By the end of the region's prehistoric period , the population is thought to have belonged largely to a culture termed Insular Celtic , comprising Brittonic Britain and Gaelic Ireland . The Roman conquest , beginning in 43 AD, and the 400-year rule of southern Britain , was followed by an invasion by Germanic Anglo-Saxon settlers, reducing
10146-409: The legal and political systems of many of its former colonies , and British culture remains globally influential, particularly in language , literature , music and sport . English is the world's most widely spoken language and the third-most spoken native language . The Acts of Union 1707 declared that the Kingdom of England and Kingdom of Scotland were "United into One Kingdom by
10260-530: The local cultures. Subsequent medieval English kings completed the conquest of Wales and tried unsuccessfully to annex Scotland . Asserting its independence in the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath , Scotland maintained its independence thereafter, albeit in near-constant conflict with England . In 1215 the Magna Carta was the first document to state that no government was above the law, that citizens have rights protecting them and that they were entitled to
10374-488: The local people. The Queen Victoria Monument is erected on a rock face at the rear end of Karimabad. It can be accessed only by trekking for about an hour passing through irrigation channels, a polo ground, an old watch tower, and a narrow passage strewn with rocks. It is at the base of the rock face and was built by Nazim Khan; in the local Burushaski language it is known "Malikamu Shikari" ( ma-li-ka-mu shi-ka-ri ). Ultar Nala water channels (seven channels flowing towards
10488-617: The lower part of the hills where new buildings were erected, which became the new capital, Karimabad. The new town has developed into a tourist place, following the development of the Karakoram Highway , with a number of shopping complexes dealing in handicrafts, hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. Both Baltit Fort and Karimabad village received the World Award of Tourism in 2000 when Indonesia, Australia, India, and Britain and other countries competed. The population of
10602-680: The major part of the British Isles archipelago and includes the island of Great Britain, the north-eastern one-sixth of the island of Ireland and some smaller surrounding islands. It lies between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea with the southeast coast coming within 22 miles (35 km) of the coast of northern France, from which it is separated by the English Channel . The Royal Greenwich Observatory in London
10716-674: The mid-1920s, most of the British population could listen to BBC radio programmes. Experimental television broadcasts began in 1929 and the first scheduled BBC Television Service commenced in 1936. The rise of Irish nationalism , and disputes within Ireland over the terms of Irish Home Rule , led eventually to the partition of the island in 1921. A period of conflict in what is now Northern Ireland occurred from June 1920 until June 1922. The Irish Free State became independent, initially with Dominion status in 1922, and unambiguously independent in 1931 . Northern Ireland remained part of
10830-404: The narrow openings in the gate. Under heavy gunfire, they rushed towards the base of the main gate carrying explosive charges. The charges were attached to the gate and secured with stones. After initiating the detonation sequence, Aylmer and another soldier retreated to a safe distance. However, the initial attempt was unsuccessful. Despite sustaining a leg wound and powder burns, Aylmer returned to
10944-645: The narrow openings, a defensive feature strategically designed by the Hunza and Nagar forces. After being injured and encountering a jammed machine gun, Durand relinquished command. He ordered sappers, under Captain Fenton Aylmer, to breach the main gate with explosives. Supported by covering fire, Captain Aylmer, his orderly Pathan, and two subalterns approached the fortress wall and successfully dislodged defenders from their positions. Captain Aylmer, along with his soldiers, used their firearms at close range through
11058-463: The only part of the island of Ireland within the United Kingdom, the name was changed in 1927 to the "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland". Although the United Kingdom is a sovereign country, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are also widely referred to as countries . The UK Prime Minister's website has used the phrase "countries within a country" to describe the United Kingdom. Some statistical summaries, such as those for
11172-430: The region. This included efforts to secure the borders with neighboring states such as Nagar and Hunza. In 1890, tensions arose when the British reinforced Chalt Fort near the border, citing reports of potential attacks from forces associated with Nagar and Hunza. They also continued to improve the road leading to the fort. In May 1891, representatives from Nagar and Hunza demanded the British cease roadwork and withdraw from
11286-504: The rest of Europe, royal absolutism would not prevail, and a professed Catholic could never accede to the throne. The British constitution would develop on the basis of constitutional monarchy and the parliamentary system . With the founding of the Royal Society in 1660, science was greatly encouraged. During this period, particularly in England, the development of naval power and the interest in voyages of discovery led to
11400-587: The result of the Acts of Union 1707 between the Kingdom of England and Kingdom of Scotland . In the 18th century, cabinet government developed under Robert Walpole , in practice the first prime minister (1721–1742). A series of Jacobite uprisings sought to remove the Protestant House of Hanover from the throne and restore the Catholic House of Stuart . The Jacobites were finally defeated at
11514-492: The road and pursued the retreating forces. Unable to escape, particularly near the first sangar on the road to Thol, the defenders surrendered their weapons. The attackers captured 92 Hunza-Nagar soldiers, along with their rifles (primarily Snider-Enfields ), a supply of government-issued Dum-dum bullets , and various other weapons. Following the fall of Thol Fort, Khan of Nagar Raja Azur and Raja of Hunza Azur Khan retreated to Chinese Turkestan without opposition. On 23 December,
11628-494: The situation in Hunza and Nagar, Algernon Durand assembled a combined force of approximately 1,000 Gurkhas and Kashmiris, along with several hundred Pathan road builders, a mountain artillery battery, 16 British officers, and 7 engineers. The challenging terrain significantly slowed the British force's progress, taking them a week to reach Chalt, their designated operations base situated only 32 kilometers (20 miles) north of Gilgit. Durand received an message from Safdar Ali:- Chalt
11742-519: The snow clad mountains of Rakaposhi and glaciers of Ulter Nala. Baltit, which was the original capital of the Hunza valley, was established in the 13th century. A fort was built, in the backdrop of snow clad mountains, in the 17th century when Mir Ayesho II's (great-grandson of Girkis, a legendary ruler) wife, the daughter of the Balti ruler, came to live in Hunza. The fort was built in Balti-style by
11856-475: The town was more than 5,000 in 1992. It had four clans of herdsmen tending livestock. Out of a population of 16,000 (65,000 in the valley) as of 1995, most of the residents of the town and the Hunsa valley were Shia Ismaili Muslims. Literacy in the valley is as high as 90% as against a national average of 58 percent. Residents of the town say that all young people of the town below the age of 30 are literate. There
11970-436: The twelve NUTS 1 regions , refer to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as "regions". Northern Ireland is also referred to as a "province". With regard to Northern Ireland, the descriptive name used "can be controversial, with the choice often revealing one's political preferences". The term "Great Britain" conventionally refers to the island of Great Britain, or politically to England, Scotland and Wales in combination. It
12084-456: The village consist of ibex ( Capra (genus), duck , red-striped fox, snow leopard ( Panthera uncia syn. Uncia uncia ), markhor ( Capra falconeri ) (wild goat), Marco Polo sheep ( Ovis ammon polii ), and yak ( Bos grunniens and Bos mutus ). Karimabad, previously known as Baltit, was originally ruled by a monarch, the Mir of Hunza . The Baltit Fort was built at that time to function as
12198-484: The while, Durand maintained communication with the Mir of Gilgit. Notably, Durand initiated the improvement of the road connecting Kashmir to the Russian frontier, which passed through Hunza and Nagar. The rulers of these two states perceived these developments as a potential threat to their previously enjoyed isolation. Following the establishment of the Gilgit Agency in 1889, the British moved to consolidate their influence in
12312-471: Was a deserted structure in 1984. However, between 1990 and 1996 the fort was completely rebuilt with all structural elements of the old fort to its original plan taking earthquake factor into consideration. The fort presents a view as if it has been newly built but retains all the original features, and commands a scenic view of the Hunza valley. Some of the rooms in the fort have exhibits of dresses and pictures as also some ancient vessels and furniture donated by
12426-603: Was a high school in the town in 1986 itself when the population of the Hunza valley was 30,000. The town has received substantial assistance from the Aga Khan Foundation , a charitable institution, which is involved in infrastructure activities such as roads and water supply, as well as in establishing educational institutions and health centres. There are also schools for women such as the Aga Khan Higher Secondary School for Girls, and
12540-623: Was chosen as the defining point of the Prime Meridian at the International Meridian Conference in 1884. The United Kingdom lies between latitudes 49° and 61° N , and longitudes 9° W and 2° E . Northern Ireland shares a 224-mile (360 km) land boundary with the Republic of Ireland. The coastline of Great Britain is 11,073 miles (17,820 km) long, though measurements can vary greatly due to
12654-470: Was formed in 1931. Nonetheless, "Britain was a very wealthy country, formidable in arms, ruthless in pursuit of its interests and sitting at the heart of a global production system." After Nazi Germany invaded Poland in 1939, Britain entered the Second World War . Winston Churchill became prime minister and head of a coalition government in 1940. Despite the defeat of its European allies in
12768-557: Was ignored, they initiated the Anglo-Brusho Campaign of 1891. In November 1891, under Colonel Algernon Durand's command, a force of approximately 1,000 troops assembled in Gilgit. Composed primarily of Gurkhas , Dogras , and Kashmiri soldiers, the force prepared for a northward advance towards Hunza and Nagar. The operation was conducted with secrecy. During their journey, they captured an individual suspected of acting as
12882-640: Was named in honour of Karim Aga Khan , the current spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Nizari community. Many locals still refer to Karimabad by its previous name, Baltit. Karimabad town is situated on the western bank of the Hunza River, nestled in the northern areas of Pakistan. It is located within a valley at an elevation of 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) above sea level. The town is characterized by its construction on stone-walled and steep-sloping terraces. Historically, Karimabad served as
12996-432: Was the first country in the world to use an approved COVID-19 vaccine , developing its own vaccine through a collaboration between Oxford University and AstraZeneca , which allowed the UK's vaccine rollout to be among the fastest in the world. The total area of the United Kingdom is approximately 94,354 square miles (244,376 km ), with a land area of 93,723 square miles (242,741 km ). The country occupies
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