The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, (including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) is located off the northwest coast of the European continent, has an area of 94,227 sq. mi. (244,046 sq. km.) and a population o f59.45 million. Capital: London. After the departure of the Romans, who brought Britain into an active relationship with Europe, Britain fell prey to invaders from Scandinavia and the Low Countries who drove the original Britons into Scotland and Wales, and established a profusion of kingdoms that finally united in the 11th century under the Danish King Canute. Norman rule, following the conquest of 1066, stimulated the development of those institutions which have since distinguished British life. Henry VIII (1509-47) turned Britain from continental adventuring and faced it to the sea ? a decision that made Britain a world power during the reign of Elizabeth I (1558-1603). Strengthened by the Industrial Revolution and the defeat of Napoleon, 19th century Britain turned to the remote parts of the world and established a colonial empire of such extent and prosperity that the world has never seen its like. World Wars I and II sealed the fate of the Empire and relegated Britain to a lesser role in world affairs by draining her resources and inaugurating a worldwide movement toward national self-determination in her former colonies.,,, ,By the mid-20th century, most of the former British Empire had gained independence and had evolved into the Commonwealth of Nations. This association of equal and autonomous states, set out to agree views and special relationships with one another (appointing High Commissioners rather than Ambassadors) for mutual benefit, trade interests, etc. The Commonwealth is presently (1999) composed of 54 member nations, including the United Kingdom. All recognize the monarch as Head of Commonwealth; 16 continue to recognize Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State. In addition to the United Kingdom, they are: Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados Belize, Canada, Grenada, Paupa New Guinea, St. Christopher & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Solomon Islands.,, Rulers:,,, ,William III, 1694-1702,, ,Anne, 1702-1714,, ,George I, 1714-1727,, ,George II, 1727-1760,, ,George III, 1760-1820,, ,George IV, 1820-1830 ,William IV, 1820-1837 ,Victoria, 1837-1901 ,Edward VII, 1901-1910 ,George V, 1910-1936 ,Edward VIII, 1936 ,George VI, 1936-1952 ,Elizabeth II, 1952- Monetary System:, ,1 Shilling = 12 Pence ,1 Pound = 20 Shillings to 1971 ,1 Guinea = 21 Shillings Branch Offices:,,, ,British office notes were introduced beginning with Henry Hase in 1826.,, ,Birmingham (1826-1939),, ,Gloucester (1826-1849),, ,Manchester (1826-1939),, ,Bristol (1827-1939),, ,Leeds (1827-1939),, ,Newcastle (1828-1939),, ,Exeter (1827-1834),, ,Liverpool (1827-1939),, ,Swansea (1826-1859),,