Exploring the Identity of the British Abroad: A Closer Look at Those Who Have Never Lived in Great Britain

Just how does one define someone who identifies with British culture but has never lived in Great Britain? This concept, often termed as British Abroad, encompasses a diverse group of individuals who are fiercely connected to British heritage and values despite having lived their lives elsewhere. This exploration will delve into the complexities of this identity, examining both the characteristics shared by those who have never resided in Britain and the nuances that make their experience unique.

Common Bonds: Shared British Values

There are certain British values that are retained by those who live far from Great Britain. These values, often deeply rooted in the national culture, manifest in various ways. For instance, The Falkland Islanders, though geographically remote, are undeniably British. In fact, many of them exhibit a more British identity than those who live within the United Kingdom itself. They embody the English, Scottish, Welsh, and Irish heritage that has defined British culture for centuries.

Citizenship and Identity: A Dual Perspective

The situation becomes more complex when considering the case of individuals who are not traditional citizens of Great Britain but still identify with it. Take, for example, an individual with a British parent but born and raised in a different country. The question of whether they should be considered British or not depends on their eligibility for a UK passport. In the case of the author's granddaughter, even though she was born in England with a Scottish father and visits Denmark often, she is a Danish citizen and speaks both Danish and English. Therefore, she is described as Danish, with a simultaneous British heritage and identity rooted in her parents' nationality.

Similarly, a British citizen born and living abroad but still holding a UK passport can identify as British. For instance, the author recounts the story of a former boyfriend with dual nationality—holding both British and Swiss passports. Despite living in Britain, he visited relations in Switzerland, demonstrating the flexibility of identifying with multiple nationalities.

Global Connections and Lingering Britishness

Even those born to British parents and raised in a different country can experience a strong sense of British identity, especially if they lived their early years in a place heavily influenced by British culture. The author draws upon their personal experiences, noting that they themselves were considered British for the first 8 years of their life abroad.

Furthermore, the concept of British identity extends to territories that once belonged to the British Empire. For example, Gibraltar, a promontory on the southern tip of Spain, remains under British control since its capture in 1704. The inhabitants of Gibraltar are far more British than other inhabitants of Spain and exhibit a strong sense of British identity in their daily lives. They fly the Union Jack, drink tea at three o'clock, and display pride in their British heritage.

This phenomenon is not limited to former colonies but extends to other regions that once had British influence. In other parts of the world, people who have never lived in Great Britain can still exhibit significant allegiance to the British monarchy and culture, such as in Commonwealth countries. While they may embrace their national identity, they also remain deeply connected to the broader British cultural fabric.

In conclusion, the identity of the British Abroad is a multifaceted and evolving concept. It encompasses not only those who have never lived in Great Britain but also individuals who navigate the complexities of multiple nationalities and identities. By examining the shared values, personal experiences, and historical connections, we can better understand the rich tapestry of British identity beyond the borders of the United Kingdom.