England or The U K ?

Why is England or the UK sometimes called Britain?

'When people say England, they sometimes mean Great Britain, sometimes the United Kingdom, sometimes the British Isles - but never England.''How to be an Alien' by George Mikes

"England" is sometimes, wrongly, used in reference to the whole United Kingdom, the entire island of Great Britain (or simply Britain), or indeed the British Isles. This is not only incorrect but can cause offence to people from other parts of the UK.

The diverse history of England, Scotland and Wales has led to very different cultural traditions; The Scots and Welsh have right to feel aggrieved whenever the term 'English' is used wrongly, to mean all three.

Countries within a Country

The name United Kingdom refers to the union of what were once four separate countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland ( though most of Ireland is now independant.)

History of the making of the UK

In 1485, Scotland was separate from England. Wales and Ireland were under some English control buy were not fully part of the kingdom.The four countries were united by 1750. In 1485:
England was ruled by the King of England
Scotland was ruled by the King of Scotland
Wales, a principality, ruled by the Prince of Wales (eldest son of the English King). Wales had its own culture and language.
Ireland - small parts were controlled by the English Kings but in many places the English control was weak. In 1750:

England was ruled by the King of England who was also the King of Scotland
One King ruled both countries.
Wales, remained a principality but more clearly under English control. English language and customs were more fashionable, but the Welsh language and culture was still strong.
Ireland - ruled by the Kings of England. English Kings were also Kings of Ireland.

The UK's full name is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Great Britain comprises only of England, Scotland and Wales.

Great Britain is the largest island of the British Isles.