Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom and the island of Great Britain. The capital is Cardiff. Until its conquest in 1282 by Edward I of England, Wales was composed of numerous independent principalities. Following the Act of Union of King Henry VIII, the Principality of Wales became a constituent part of the kingdom of England in 1536. Since 1301 it is traditional for the king of England to crown his eldest son Prince of Wales, although this is not automatic. In 1999, a National Assembly of Wales was established with its headquarters in Cardiff.
