Great Britain, the dominant industrial and maritime power of the 19th century, played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science. At its zenith, the British Empire stretched over one-third of the earth's surface. The first half of the 20th century saw the UK's strength seriously depleted in two World Wars. The second half witnessed the dismantling of the Empire and the UK rebuilding itself into a modern and prosperous European nation. As one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council, a founding member of NATO, and of the Commonwealth, the UK pursues a global approach to foreign policy; it currently is weighing the degree of its integration with continental Europe. A member of the EU, it chose to remain outside the Economic and Monetary Union for the time being. Constitutional reform is also a significant issue in the UK and referendums in 1997 created a Scottish Parliament, a National Assembly for Wales, and a new Northern Ireland Assembly, but the latter has been frequently suspended due to bickering over the peace process (currently operating). In 1999 the 1st London mayor was also elected (Ken Livingstone). The monarchy remains in the UK due the lack of revolution - despite its constitutional power however the Prime Minister holds the royal prerogative powers nowdays. The Queen is the official Head of State and plays a ceremonial role more than anything else.
