The UK Brexit referendum took place on 23 June 2016:

On 23 June 2016, the United Kingdom (UK) held a significant referendum to decide whether to remain a member of the European Union (EU). This event, commonly called the "Brexit Referendum", asked the electorate a simple question: "Should the UK stay in the EU or leave?"

The roots of the Brexit referendum can be traced back to increasing dissatisfaction among specific segments of the British population concerning national identity, EU regulations, immigration policies, and the loss of sovereignty. The campaign leading up to the referendum was characterised by intense debate, with two main factions emerging: the "Leave" campaign, which advocated for withdrawal from the EU, and the "Remain" campaign, which supported continued membership.

On 23 June 2016, the referendum concluded with 51.9% of voters opting to leave the EU and 48.1% choosing to remain. The outcome reflected deep divisions within the UK, with significant variations in support across different regions, age groups, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

After the referendum, the UK government began the process of leaving the EU, which led to extensive negotiations about the terms of departure, trade agreements, and the future relationship between the UK and the EU. The official exit, referred to as "Brexit," occurred on 31 Jan 2020. However, the terms were unfavourable for the UK and remain unresolved to this day - many see this as the EU punishing the UK for its audacity to leave the union.

The Brexit referendum not only altered the political landscape of the UK but also had far-reaching implications for both domestic and international relations. The complexities arising from this decision continue to shape discussions on governance, economy, and social cohesion within the UK. As the nation navigates its post-Brexit reality, the effects of this significant referendum remain a topic of considerable interest and scrutiny.