Consensus and Challenge (1945-1990)

Political Developments

The foundation of the Welfare State post World War II under the Labour government led by Clem Attlee. The Beveridge Report (1942) played a significant role in its creation.
Decolonisation post-war and the resultant issues faced by the UK, particularly in India, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Rise of Thatcherism under the Conservative government, a free-market ideology leading the way for privatisation of key industries and curtailment of trade union powers.
The public’s increasing distrust of politicians and politics as a whole, symbolised by events like the Suez Crisis and Profumo Affair.
Shift in foreign policy focus from Empire to Europe, exemplified by the UK joining the European Economic Community in 1973.

Economic and Social Developments

Post-war austerity and rationing were replaced by affluence and consumerism during the 1950s and 60s.
Arrival of significant migrant populations from ex-colonies, leading to multicultural societies and racial tensions typified by events such as the Brixton Riots.
Structural changes in the economy due to deindustrialisation, leading to a shift towards service industries and the financial sector.
Unemployment and economic recessions resulted in social unrest in the late 1970s and the 1980s.
Widespread social changes encapsulated by the women’s liberation, gay rights, and anti-nuclear movements.

Cultural Transformations

Influence of American culture on British music, fashion and media, demonstrated by phenomena like the Beatles and ‘Swinging Sixties’.
Influence of multiculturalism on British food, fashion, music and language.
Shifts towards progressive and changing attitudes to gender, sexuality, and race, epitomised by various pieces legislation including the Sex Discrimination Act (1975) and Race Relations Act (1965).
Explosion of youth culture and rebellion against traditional norms.
Increased criticism of monarchy and the establishment, likely as a result of various royal scandals and dissatisfaction with societal inequality.

Continuity

Persistent social and economic inequalities, especially in the North of England and Wales.
Continued importance of class distinctions, despite significant social mobility in the post-war years.
Importance of tradition in institutions such as monarchy, education, and the legal system.
Persistence of poverty and social problems, despite the establishment of the welfare state.
Ongoing centrality of the parliamentary representation and bipartisan politics, despite various crises and challenges.