Life in the UK Book - Historical Stories

On what type of income do you have to pay tax in the UK?

Remember, in the UK, retirement isn't tax-free. Most people in the UK have to pay tax on their pension income.

What's the minimum age requirement to stand for public office in the UK?

Think of when you're legally an adult and eligible to vote. That's the same age you can stand for public office.

Which language origin can be traced back in many place names like Grimsby and Scunthorpe?

Think of the Vikings, who were notorious seafaring raiders and settlers from Northern Europe. They left their linguistic mark too!

Which country's invasion by Germany in 1939 led to the UK declaring war on Germany?

Remember the beginning of World War II. When Germany invaded this Eastern European country, it was the last straw for the UK.

How many elected members make up the Northern Ireland Assembly?

A proper 'assembly' indeed, with just over a hundred members ensuring diverse representation in Northern Ireland.

Which two of these individuals are known for their contributions to British art?

Imagine a 'mural' by Hockney and a 'sculpture' by Moore. Both are Masterpieces of British Art.

Were the Anglo-Saxons Christians when they first arrived in Britain?

Remember, the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons from their original religious beliefs to Christianity occurred gradually after their arrival.

Which event in 1215 significantly altered the powers of the king?

This great parchment essentially curtailed the king's absolute authority; think 'Carta', as in 'Charter'.

Does the Welsh Assembly have the power to legislate on Health Services?

The Welsh Assembly has a wide array of powers including over health services. It keeps Wales healthy, in a legislative sense.

Is it true that during the Victorian era, the British Empire evolved into the largest empire the world has ever known?

Remember that the British Empire encompassed India, Australia, and vast regions of Africa during this era.

Can you identify the patron Saint of Northern Ireland?

Think of the green-clad saint who supposedly eradicated snakes from Ireland.

What was the preferred language of the English court around 1400?

Consider the language that shares the name with the country.

Is it accurate that Florence Nightingale is known for her efforts in children's education during the 19th century?

Think of a lady with a lamp illuminating the path of modern nursing.

Is volunteering mandatory in the UK?

Remember, 'volunteering' refers to willingly working for good causes without any payment or compulsion.

Which notable monument can you find in Wiltshire?

Think of a monument made of standing stones, a prehistoric wonder shrouded in mystery.

Do the opening words of the UK National Anthem include 'God save the Queen'?

'God save our gracious Queen, Long live our noble Queen' are the solemn words that open the UK National Anthem.

Which two words are found in the opening lines of the UK National Anthem 'God save the Queen'?

Imagine the anthem's lyrics portraying a gracious and noble queen reigning over the kingdom.

How many times has the Olympic Games been hosted by the UK?

Let's go back to the times of 1908, 1948, and 2012 when the Olympic spirit was high in the UK.

Did Queen Elizabeth II celebrate her Diamond Jubilee, marking 50 years as queen, in 2010?

Consider a longer reign, as Diamond jubilees celebrate a 60-year milestone; and it happened in 2012.

Did the kingdoms of England and Scotland unite in 1707?

Think of 1707 as when England and Scotland moved from '17-0-7eparation' to '1-70-7ogetherness'.

What types of vehicles are you permitted to learn to drive once you're 17 or older?

At 17, one can start learning to ride a Motor-cycle and handle a Car - MC and C, which sounds like 'MCs' or music DJs, often get popular from their late teens!

What is the primary role of The National Trust?

Think National Trust as the guardian of national treasures - not just any treasures, but our historical buildings and places.

Do people celebrate Christmas less than they used to before?

Christ-mas is still 'mass-ively' celebrated. The tradition of grand meals and family gatherings still endures.

Are the Channel Islands self-governing?

Channel Islands are as independent as a 'Channel' on TV, they govern their own content so to speak!

What's the national flower of Northern Ireland?

Remember, 'N. Ireland Sham-rocks!' - the national flower is Shamrock.

What's the name of the most well-known cricket competition, a series of Test matches between England and Australia?

Remember the contest as fiery as 'Ashes', ignited in the heat of competition between England and Australia.

What is the legal age to purchase alcohol?

Recall that the legal age for almost all 'adult' activities is often 18, and that includes buying alcohol.

Who carries the responsibility for managing the economy?

Remember, the 'Chancellor of the Exchequer' handles the checkbook of the nation's economy.

During Queen Elizabeth's reign, did the British Empire become the largest empire the world had ever seen?

Think of Queen Victoria, not Elizabeth. The expansion of the empire peaked during Victoria's reign.

What was the primary objective of the Emancipation Act?

Think about the word 'Emancipation'; it signifies freedom from bondage or slavery.

Identify the correct statement about women workforce in Britain today:

Think equal! Women contribute almost equally to the workforce as men in Britain today.

Who did the serfs serve during the Norman era?

Think of serfs as serving the 'lord' of the land, not the knights or fellow peasants.

Who is credited with the invention of the World Wide Web?

Picture a 'web' spun across the entire globe by 'Sir Tim Berners-Lee'.

What were the refugees from France, seeking religious asylum in Britain, called?

Remember 'Huguenots' as French Protestants hugging their new home, fleeing persecution in France.

In 1776, 13 colonies declared independence from the British. On which continent were these colonies situated?

Think of the 'July 4', 1776 declaration. It's a significant date in 'North America'.

Is it true that Members of Parliament (MPs) can only be approached at their office in the House of Commons?

Think of MPs as being available for constituents both at home and in the House of Commons.

Was Anne of Cleves, the fourth wife of Henry VIII, a Spanish princess?

Remember, Cleves is in Germany, not Spain. Anne was a political marriage for Henry, but the unity didn't last long.

Is it true that the National Anthem 'God save the queen' can only be played in the presence of the Queen?

Try to remember that the anthem is a symbol of national respect, and not bound by the physical presence of the Queen.

What do people traditionally carve into lanterns and illuminate with candles during Halloween?

Think about the traditional orange fruit associated with Halloween, it’s not a type of melon, pineapple or coconut.

What were members of the first Women's Social and Political Union group commonly known as?

The term starts with 'suff-', like 'suffrage', which means the right to vote, and was related to women's rights in the early 20th century.

What were supporters of King Charles I known as during the Civil War?

Think of a horseman or a knight, and you might remember the name of King Charles I's supporters.

Where are serious offences in England, Wales and Northern Ireland typically tried in front of a judge and a jury?

Think of a court where the crown represents the power of the law and the state.

What can you do if it's challenging for you to reach a polling station or polling place?

Remember, if you can't physically be there to vote, the election can still come to you through the mail.

Is it true that the Glorious Revolution earned its name as there was no fighting in England and it confirmed the power of Parliament?

Think of a revolution that's peaceful and 'glorious' because it strengthened the parliamentary democracy, and you'll find your answer!

Life in the UK: A Historical Journey