... just how very lacking my knowledge of British history is...

It's probably better than mine and I was born here. Admittedly, I dropped history after my 2nd year because of subject choices that were forced on me, and also because it was appallingly taught (ok, who can recite the names and dates of all the kings and queens from William to Victoria the quickest?). I'm learning so much more now that I dress up in silly costumes...