8.4: Political Shifts and Conflicts
Europe and the Common Market
Formation of the EEC and the UK’s Membership
In 1957, West Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands established the European Economic Community (EEC). Initially, the UK chose not to join the EEC, but in 1973, Britain became a full member. Although the UK was part of the European Union, it did not adopt the Euro currency.
Conservative Government from 1979 to 1997
Margaret Thatcher and Economic Reforms
Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s first female Prime Minister, led the Conservative government from 1979 to 1990. Under her leadership, significant structural changes were made to the UK economy, including the privatisation of several nationalised industries and the implementation of legal controls to reduce trade union powers. Deregulation during this time helped the City of London expand its role as an international hub for investment, insurance, and financial services. However, traditional industries such as coal mining and shipbuilding experienced significant decline.
The Falklands War
In 1982, Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the South Atlantic. In response, a naval taskforce was sent from the UK, resulting in military action that led to the successful recovery of the islands.
John Major’s Premiership
After Margaret Thatcher stepped down in 1990, John Major became Prime Minister. His time in office was marked by his efforts to advance the Northern Ireland peace process.
Key Figures in the Conservative Era
Margaret Thatcher (1925–2013)
Margaret Thatcher was born in Grantham, Lincolnshire. She was elected as a Conservative MP in 1959 and became the first female Prime Minister in 1979. She remained Prime Minister until 1990, making her the longest-serving Prime Minister of the 20th century. She worked closely with US President Ronald Reagan and was instrumental in recognizing the changes in the Soviet Union that helped end the Cold War.
Roald Dahl (1916–1990)
Roald Dahl, a celebrated Welsh author of Norwegian descent, served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. Dahl is best known for his children’s books, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and George’s Marvellous Medicine.
Labour Government from 1997 to 2010
Tony Blair and Devolution
In 1997, the Labour Party, led by Tony Blair, won the General Election. Blair’s government introduced the Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly (Devolution). The Scottish Parliament was granted significant legislative powers, while the Welsh Assembly received control over public services.
Northern Ireland Peace Process
One of Blair’s major achievements was the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. The Northern Ireland Assembly was established in 1999, leading to a period where most paramilitary groups decommissioned their weapons.
Gordon Brown’s Premiership
Gordon Brown succeeded Tony Blair as Prime Minister in 2007, overseeing the country during a time of significant global economic challenges.