Great Britain has a long history as a global power. From colonies around the world to diplomatic leadership, Britain has been a powerful leader through history. But the United Kingdom’s involvement and influence has waned in recent years. Since Britain’s involvement in the military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the British people and their politicians in Parliament have withdrawn from the world stage and turned their attentions inward. Listen to learn more about the causes and effects of Britain’s surprising absence from the world stage.
Story Length: 3:51
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September 22, 2014
4:04
On Thursday Scottish citizens, 16 and above, turned out in record numbers to vote on the referendum on Scottish independence from the United Kingdom. Scotland and England joined to become the United Kingdom of Britain in 1707. Three-hundred and seven years later, 55% of Scottish voters voted No to independence and chose to remain in the United Kingdom. But this does not mean the status quo will remain the same. British Prime Minister David Cameron has promised Scots increased autonomy and decision making power over Scottish domestic policy. Listen to this public radio story with your class and discuss what the vote means for the future of unified United Kingdom.
Read MoreSeptember 15, 2014
3:45
Russian military intervention in Ukraine, one of Russia's former republics, has the international community on guard. At a summit last week, NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, reinforced its commitment to protect member states from Russian aggression and prepared for this possibility. Improve your listening skills with this public radio story that gives an overview of the NATO summit and its response to international threats.
Read MoreFebruary 21, 2014
5:28
The fast moving crisis in Ukraine is threatening the stability of that country. Nationalists are fighting the elected government. The unrest is tied to Ukraine’s past as part of the former Soviet Union. Listen to this story with your students to understand the history of the conflict.
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