We English are said to be a very tolerant, respectable people and it’s true. People know what Englishness means without perhaps being able to articulate it.
Fair play
Rule of law
Bonne vivants!
We have a great sense of humour.
I believe what’s forgotten, however, is how irreverent we can be, boisterous and, when it comes down to it, willing to protect ourselves.
Of course, we assume this means violent revolution but it’s not really in our character. And long-term, I don’t really think bloody rebellion gets you where you want to go.
The English are individualists.
We are laissez-faire (live and let live)
And people scoff but we have principles too.
When you’re constantly in other people’s business, you’re only ever going to be creating stress – and it makes you a tyrant.
I firmly believe in honesty, let people know what you will and won’t put up with but for the rest of it – start focusing on what you can do. That’s a far more healthy proposition and a healthier one!