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A snapshot of British history: 1950-Today

  • Writer: Emily Freeman
    Emily Freeman
  • Apr 10, 2019
  • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 11, 2019

The Golden Age

After the difficulties of the WWII era, Britain entered a happier era known as The Golden Age (1950-1969). During this time, unemployment rates were at a record low and as such, the standard of living for the average Brit was rising. More people owned appliances such as washing machines, vacuums, refrigerators, and televisions. Leisure time became increasingly common, especially for the middle class. In sum, life was pretty good in Britain.


And Then…The 1970s

IRA propaganda

Unfortunately, this period of prosperity and happy times was followed by several economic and political crises in the 1970s. The winter of 1978-1979 was known as the Winter of Discontent, as there were numerous trade union strikes throughout the country. These widespread strikes angered the public, as they were not able to receive the services they desired. There was also a lot of political unrest in Northern Ireland beginning around the 1960s. This prompted the formation of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA), a paramilitary organization that sought to end British rule in Northern Ireland, reunify Ireland, and create an independent republic that included all of Ireland.

Changing Values in Regard to Sexuality and Gender Equality

Margaret Thatcher

Also during the 60s and 70s, the sexual morals in Britain were changing. There was a disagreement between the older and younger generation over these morals, with the older generation choosing to stick to more traditional values and the younger generation pushing for more relaxed values. Going along with these changing values, the contraceptive pill and mini skirts were developed and popularized. In 1967, male homosexuality became partially decriminalized, the first step along the path of homosexuality becoming more accepted in Britain. Regarding gender equality, the 60s and 70s were also characterized by feminists fighting for better employment and equal pay. Though she was not a feminist in the traditional sense, Margaret Thatcher served as the first female Prime Minister from 1979-1990. She was known as the “Iron Lady,” and was the dominant political force in the late 20th century.


Some Well-Known Names

Princess Diana

Perhaps one of the most well-known members of the royal family in modern times, Princess Diana was a key figure in British history during the latter end of the 1900s. In 1981, she married Prince Charles, but was later divorced in 1996. During her time as a member of the royal family, she restored their prominent presence in the British headlines, tabloids, and other celebrity gossip publications. She was known as the “People’s Princess,” for her example of grace, duty, compassion, and selfless humanity. Her death due to a car crash in 1997 sparked a period of nation-wide grief, mourning the loss of the natural nobility of their beloved princess.


The Beatles

This was also a great time period for the music industry in Britain. Some of the successful and well-known bands and artists were started during this time. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, more common known as the Beatles, formed one of the most influential rock bands in British history. They wrote timeless classics such as “Hey Jude,” “Yesterday,” and “Let it Be.” A close rival would be Queen, another rock band that came together in 1970. The lead singer of Queen, Freddie Mercury, has been referred to as one of the most talented vocalists in the history of popular music. Just last year, the popular movie, Bohemian Rhapsody was released, bringing to life the story behind this widely successful and beloved British rock band.



 
 
 

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