Is it true that the Channel Islands are part of the United Kingdom?

The Channel Islands, while closely associated with the UK, are not actually part of the United Kingdom. They're Crown Dependencies, which is a special status. Think of it like this: they're self-governing, meaning they have their own administrations, laws, and even their own parliaments. However, the British Crown is ultimately responsible for them, particularly when it comes to things like defence and international relations. This relationship dates back centuries, with the islands having been part of the Duchy of Normandy, which William the Conqueror ruled. When he invaded England in 1066 and became King, the islands remained tied to the Crown, even when mainland Normandy was lost to France. So, while they're British in many ways and have strong ties to the UK, they maintain their own distinct identities and aren't incorporated into the UK itself. It's easy to see why some might think they are part of the UK, given their close relationship, but their unique constitutional status makes them separate entities.