England… Great Britain…the British Commonwealth… the United Kingdom (U.K.)…no matter what you refer this island nation as, they continuously stand as one of the United States’ most stalwart allies. Essentially, since the American Revolution brought the 13 colonies out from under British rule, the nation of America has enjoyed steadfast support from England in its growth and development and ultimate standing as a leader in the world. (In fact, read The Telegraph’s overview about the History of Britain's special relationship with America.)

Many students learn about the history of England in Medieval times and their evolving role as a world-power and then their ultimate loss of the American colonies in 1776. Post the American Revolution, England ceases to appear in many history classes and textbooks. However it is important to study the history of England’s special relationship with America throughout history leading up to the present times. Today, Great Britain may not enjoy the world domination that it once held, but it continues to serve as an international leader and a strong and vital ally to the United States of America.

While the two nations may not have always agreed on every debate, they have continued to remain friends and allies generation after generation. As one of the United States most important political supporters, it is important that we are aware of English politics as well as our own. This last week was an important time in England’s political front. The election for Prime Minister was an exciting and unsure period as the nation debated between the Conservative Party (David Cameron) and the Labour Party (Ed Miliband). Refer to Channel 4’s overview of The Main Political Parties to learn more about the differences.

As it turns out, Prime Minister David Cameron will be returning for a second term in England’s Parliament. Read David Cameron and Conservatives Get Majority in British Election (New York Times) to get caught up with the latest news. Next read all about Mr. Cameron from the Wall Street Journal. Follow up with the Wall Street Journal’s coverage of how David Cameron Takes It All. Do a quick search on the Web to learn more about the Prime Minister if you like.

Many U.K. citizens are now wondering, “What’s next?” Read the Financial Time’s article What David Cameron’s electoral victory means for Europe. According to The Telegraph, David Cameron: I've already started EU negotiations. The Scotsman reports that David Cameron ‘has mandate for EU reform’. And the Independent posts that After David Cameron's electoral success, the real fight begins.

One of the first issues that Prime Minister Cameron will have to address is Scotland. Catch up by reading the New York Times’ article, A Chasm Divides David Cameron and Nicola Sturgeon, Leaders of a Kingdom Still United. Read the Chicago Tribune article and watch the video Election may set Britain on a path to becoming 'Little England'. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette also reports about potential Tricky times ahead for Cameron in Britain.

So as Prime Minister David Cameron returns to 10 Downing Street to get ready to continue to work hard to address a long list of issues within the United Kingdom, the United States will continue to follow the news and political atmosphere of this great nation. As you read the local news this week, read about how various political factions within England and in the United States respond to Mr. Cameron’s first steps in his second term as prime minister. Write a letter to your local newspaper that convinces other readers why it is important for United States citizens to follow England’s news and why they should keep current with our news as well. Consider your relationship with one of your closest friends. List the aspects of your friendship that support a successful relationship. How do these same factors play within the relationship between two friendly nations?

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.3
Analyze in detail a series of events described in a text; determine whether earlier events caused later ones or simply preceded them.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.4
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary describing political, social, or economic aspects of history/social science.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.6
Compare the point of view of two or more authors for how they treat the same or similar topics, including which details they include and emphasize in their respective accounts.