Currently, the United Kingdom consists of four main regions, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
England, as the core and cornerstone of the UK, plays a crucial role.
In contrast, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland joined at different stages in history.
Despite the UK's relatively small land area of about 240,000 square kilometers, each region exhibits significant cultural, linguistic, and ethnic differences.
For instance, England is primarily inhabited by the Anglo-Saxon lineage, while Scotland and Wales are predominantly Celtic.
These regional differences have historically led some areas to pursue independence from the UK, particularly Scotland.
Scotland has actively promoted independence movements, while Wales has remained relatively peaceful.
Despite being part of the same country, Scotland has maintained a reserved attitude towards its relationship with England.
Historically, Scotland and England were long-term rivals, enduring numerous wars and conflicts over centuries.
Even after reconciling and becoming a unified entity, their relationship has not fundamentally improved.
Following the Industrial Revolution and the Age of Discovery, Britain rapidly ascended as the "Empire on which the sun never sets," with colonies across all continents.
However, after World War II, Britain's power sharply declined, and its colonial system quickly disintegrated, marking the end of the British Empire's glory days.
By the 1960s, Scotland began to realize that remaining under the British monarchy could no longer sustain its former prosperity.
Coupled with rising nationalism, Scotland's momentum towards independence became increasingly evident.
In contrast, Wales' situation is markedly different.
Wales is geographically remote, covering an area of only 20,800 square kilometers, with a sparse population of approximately 3.08 million people.
In comparison, Scotland has a larger geographical area and population size, making it a significant force within the British Isles.
Therefore, due to its remote location, sparse population, and lack of independent economic foundation and motivation, Wales has not pursued independence.
Since the 13th century, Wales has maintained a relatively friendly relationship with England and has been deeply assimilated into British culture, becoming an integral part of the British family.
Economically, Scotland possesses abundant North Sea oil and gas resources, while Wales lacks similar strategic resources.
Thus, Scotland's independence movement is not only rooted in historical reasons but also supported by substantial economic factors.
Due to natural conditions and historical background differences, Wales lacks the motivation and conditions for independence compared to Scotland.
Therefore, Wales' choice to maintain stability within the UK may be the wiser option.
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