question_answer

How was the formation of the nation-state the result of a long-drawn-out process in Britain? Explain.                                                                                                                [AI 2008]

Answer:

Prior to 18th century there was no British nation. People who inhabited British island were identified by ethnic group to which they belonged such as English, Welsh, Scots or Irish and had their cultural and political traditions. Out of these the English nation steadily grew in importance, wealth and power and was able to extend its influence over other nations of the island. The English parliament which had seized power from monarchy in 1688 was the instrument through which a nation-state with England at the center came to be forged. The Act of Union (1707) between England and Scotland resulted in the formation of Great Britain. In effect it meant that Scotland came under the influence of England. The British parliament dominated the English members.