The Significance of the Main Developments in Wales and England (1918-1980)

Post-War Developments: 1918-1945

Representation of the People Act (1918) redefined the electoral landscape by lowering the voting age to 21 for men and 30 for women who met certain property qualifications.
Advent of the General Strike (1926), a major event in labour history that would shape the government-union relationship for years to come.
The Statute of Westminster (1931) established legislative equality between the UK and the dominions, signalling a shift in the nature of the British Empire.
The impact of the Great Depression demonstrated the challenges of economic adjustment and led to high levels of unemployment, particularly in Wales and the north of England.
During the Second World War, many societal norms were overturned, and rationing introduced that would last until 1954.

Establishment of the welfare state by the Labour government post-war, including the creation of the National Health Service (NHS) in 1948, creating a more egalitarian society.
Development and expansion of the council house programme, aiming to raise the standard of living across the nation by offering affordable housing.
Immigration Act of 1948 marked a significant change in British society with influx of immigrants from former colonies contributing to a multicultural society.
Nationalisation of major industries such as coal, electricity, and railways intended to encourage economic recovery and protect workers’ rights.
Decolonisation process began, notably with the independence of India, marking a major shift in international relations.

Emergence of the sexual revolution and the subsequent liberalisation of societal attitudes, highlighted by the Abortion Act of 1967 and the Divorce Act of 1969.
Impact of the Cold War and the dismantling of Britain’s role as a major global power, leading to a re-evaluation of national identity.
Winter of Discontent (1978-1979) saw Britain crippled by numerous public sector strikes, leading to a loss in confidence for the Labour government and subsequent rise of the Conservative Party.
Thatcher’s ascent to power in 1979 marked a political shift towards the right, setting the stage for significant socio-economic changes in Wales and England.