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Picture Courtesy: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/12/30/six-iranians-cross-english-channel-in-inflatable-boat-from-france

Context: The deaths of migrants during their attempt to cross the English Channel highlight the dangerous conditions faced by asylum seekers seeking refuge in the UK.

About English Channel

• The English Channel is an arm of the Atlantic Ocean separating southern England from northern France. It links to the North Sea via the Strait of Dover.
• It is around 560 km long and varies from 240 km at its widest to just 34 km at the Strait of Dover. It has an area of about 75,000 sq km.
• It was formed relatively recently after the last glacial period ended around 10,000 years ago, separating Britain from continental Europe as sea levels rose.
• The Channel has had various names over history including the British Sea, the Gaulish/British Ocean, the Narrow Seas, and La Manche in French.
• The Channel served as a natural defence, contributing to Britain's ability to repel invasion attempts throughout history, including during the Napoleonic Wars and World War II.
• The Channel historically facilitated trade between Britain and continental Europe, promoting cultural and economic exchange.
• The Channel remains a vital shipping lane, connecting major ports and serving as a crucial route for international maritime traffic.

Conclusion

• The English Channel has played a key role in shaping the history and geography of Europe, particularly influencing the development of Britain as a naval superpower and serving as a natural barrier against invasion.

Source:

Times of India

Wikipedia

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