1. England is officially part of Europe, but it isn’t on the continent’s mainland

Though it is certainly geographically proximate to the rest of Europe, England is actually located on a large island to the northwest of most of Europe. Parts of France and England are relatively close to one another, though they are separated by a body of water known as the Channel.

2. Its capital is London

Most capital cities have a certain measure of fame, and London is no different. The city boasts history, cultural landmarks and more. In fact, London is one of the most well-known cities in the entire world.

3. England was the country from which the United States broke away

Followers of geopolitics over the past century know England and the United States as close allies, but that was not always the case.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, a sizable portion of what is now the United States was under British control. Eventually, many of the American colonists decided to break away and found their own country — a proposition the British found unseemly. A war ensued, and eventually America gained its independence.

4. England has a queen

To most Americans, the notion of a queen seems downright odd, but in England it’s a reality. The queen, who has ruled for many decades, has limited actual power, but she’s a very prominent national figurehead and is reported to be extremely wealthy.