Because the FIFA World Cup is taking place this year, many flags representing different countries have shown up, adorning cars in the streets. The flag for England has caused quite the stir in my family.

I knew that the white background and red cross meant England, but my mom asked me why it wasn't the union jack. And I said that that was the flag for Great Britain..at least I thought. Anyways, great confusion ensued and I now have the following question for you intellectuals (I apologize for the stupidity in advance):

1) What is the difference between Great Britain and the United Kingdom?

Yes...that IS the question. Thanks guys!

lol my Mother and I had much the same discussion.

as for your question I found the answer here: http://geography.about.com/library/faq/blqzuk.htm

[quote:d3014c5568]The United Kingdom is a country that consists of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In fact, the official name of the country is "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland."
Great Britain is the name of the island northwest of France and east of Ireland that consists of three somewhat autonomous regions: England, Wales and Scotland.

Therefore, England is part of Great Britain, which is part of the United Kingdom. The U.K. includes England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are not countries but the United Kingdom is. The remaining portion of the island of Ireland (that which is not the U.K.'s Northern Ireland) is an independent country called the Republic of Ireland (Eire).
[/quote:d3014c5568]

Wow- thanks for clearing that up! I'm glad I'm not the only one that's been pondering this.

I always assumed Englad was a country. Good question and answer. Thanks.

I'm currently in England and everyone here is really excited about the World Cup. They are flying flags from anywhere they can put one and the flag that they are flying is the red cross on white. It's pretty crazy. I've seen girls with their finger nails painted with the flag. I don't think that we get this excited about hockey in Canada. I can't wait to see the partyin that breaks out if England wins it.