The British have had a long-term fascination with the idea of Israel and its central role in biblical prophecy that dates back to their earliest recorded literature. The Epistle of Gildas (circa. 6th century AD) and the Venerable Bedes Ecclesiastical History (735 AD) both saw the British as the new Israel, Gods chosen people, who were destined to play a strategic role despite repeated invasions by their Nordic neighbors.
It's an interesting article, too long to justify stealing it to here.
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