It's a strange place, England

We are a very strange country! We make up about half a small island on the outer fringe of Europe, yet our language is widespread. The English were immigrants here ourselves, yet many of us protest when others immigrate to these shores. We claim that Football is coming 'home' to England even though versions were played all across Europe, and the Scots wrote the first known rules.
A nation of contradictions; some hate us, others laugh at us, some people may even like us.
Some among us don't even know the difference between England and Britain! Our ignorance of our own history and geography is appalling yet - were we a force for good rather than bad?
Only history will decide that.
Most of us just live our lives, suffer our shockingly poor politicians and hope for better things for our children- just like every people everywhere!

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

helenS · 36-40, F

[quote]Some among us don't even know the difference between England and Britain! [/quote]
Oh – there is a difference between England and Britain? 😏

LizOwen · 41-45, F

@helenS Many people don't know that.

helenS · 36-40, F

@LizOwen When I was in Aberystwyth, as a tourist, I said to someone: "England is really a beautiful country!"
Their reaction might perhaps be best described as somewhat frosty, to say the least.

LizOwen · 41-45, F

@helenS Not surprising! Two different countries- and with a great deal of ugly history

helenS · 36-40, F

@LizOwen I was so naive! I did not know it's such an important point...

LizOwen · 41-45, F

@helenS Maybe a bit like calling an Iraqi Iranian, or a Chinese person Japanese

helenS · 36-40, F

@LizOwen My accomodation in Aberystwyth was of the BnB type, and there were also some nice ladies from England (!), whom I met in the breakfast room. I told them about my silly adventure in the street and they said they don't understand either why it's so important to the Welsh not to be confused with the English.

TheSirfurryanimalWales · 61-69, M

@helenS When I am England no one confuses me as English..it’s my accent😀

LizOwen · 41-45, F

@helenS Many English are a bit ignorant - I mentioned that in my opening piece. They think everybody should be grateful to be thought English! Their lack of understanding is breathtaking.

OldBrit · 61-69, M

@helenS I have fond memories of Aberystwyth my son lived there for 4.5 years. My daughter-in-law is Welsh as they met there as students.

My son found the most local AA meeting (it was virtually next door to his flat) for me. I roll up. Welsh speaking only 😂😂😂
They were very kind allowing me to share in English and we all went for a coffee in the hotel I was staying in after.

helenS · 36-40, F

@OldBrit Your son studied at the local university, right?

OldBrit · 61-69, M

@helenS yes Prifysgol Aberystwyth. Did physics with space science