Britain Transformed: Politics- conservatie Dominance (consensus 1945-79) Flashcards
(32 cards)
What was meant by the term “Butskellism” and who coined it?
“Butskellism” was a term used by The Economist to describe the economic and welfare policies associated with the post-war consensus. It was a mix of the names of the Conservative Chancellor (1951–55) and Labour’s Chancellor, reflecting shared approaches.
Who was Prime Minister from 1951–55 and what role did he take on?
Winston Churchill was Prime Minister again from 1951 to 1955. He took on more of a ‘caretaker’ role as he was 76 years old, and many noticed he had lost the drive he had during the war.
What major health issue did Churchill suffer while in office, and when did he retire?
Churchill suffered a stroke in 1953 but continued as Prime Minister until his retirement in 1955.
When did Anthony Eden become Prime Minister and what was his background?
Anthony Eden became Prime Minister in 1955. He was relatively young and popular, with an impressive wartime record as Churchill’s Foreign Minister.
Why did Eden call another election in May 1955 and what did it show?
Eden called an election in May 1955 to ensure he had a strong mandate. The result showed public approval of Conservative management of the economy.
What was the employment situation in Britain by July 1955?
By July 1955, Britain had the lowest employment figures in its recent history — only 215,000 people were out of work, just over 1% of the workforce.
What event led to Eden’s resignation, and when did it happen?
Eden became embroiled in the Suez Crisis, a foreign policy disaster, and resigned in January 1957.
Who succeeded Eden and what was his government’s reputation?
Harold Macmillan succeeded Eden. His government was very popular due to a mixed economy, rising living standards, low unemployment, and declining social inequality.
What was notable about British living standards in 1957?
In 1957, British wages and living standards were the most equal in the 20th century between rich and poor.
What happened in the 1959 General Election under Macmillan?
The Conservatives increased their majority in the 1959 General Election.
When did Macmillan resign and who replaced him?
Macmillan resigned in October 1963 and was replaced by Sir Alec Douglas-Home.
What caused the Suez Crisis?
Egypt’s President Nasser wanted full control of the Suez Canal and offered to pay British shareholders. Eden reacted with hostility and suspicion.
When did Nasser occupy the Canal Zone and what was the British concern?
Nasser occupied the Canal Zone on 26th July 1956. Britain feared the canal would fall into Soviet hands due to Egypt’s ties with the USSR.
What did France and Israel propose to Britain regarding Suez?
France and Israel invited Britain to join a secret invasion of the Suez Canal Zone. Eden agreed to maintain an image as a strong international statesman.
What happened on 5th November 1956, and how did the US respond?
The invasion of the Canal Zone began on 5th November 1956. The US, not consulted, reacted angrily. Eisenhower threatened to sell America’s reserves of British currency, which would collapse the pound’s value.
What were the consequences of the Suez Crisis for Britain?
Britain was forced to withdraw. It marked a reduction in British global power and recognition it could no longer act independently without US support.
What was Macmillan’s background and why was it problematic?
Macmillan came from a privileged, aristocratic background. His cabinet included 35 former Etonians, reinforcing the Conservative image as elitist and out of touch.
How did Labour leaders use Conservative elitism to criticise the party?
Harold Wilson and Hugh Gaitskell criticised the Conservatives as dominated by aristocrats and argued Britain was being run by men with connections, not ability.
What was the ‘Night of the Long Knives’ and what was its impact?
In 1962, Macmillan sacked seven Cabinet ministers in one night to bring in younger, meritocratic figures. Initially seen as desperate, it later boosted his popularity.
What problems remained despite Macmillan’s attempts to modernise?
Scandals and economic troubles persisted, contributing to the Conservative defeat in the 1964 election.
Who was Sir Alec Douglas-Home and what were his challenges as PM?
Douglas-Home was a skilled administrator but had an image problem. He was a former Earl and member of the House of Lords, which reinforced the elitist image.
How did the media portray Douglas-Home?
Satirists like Private Eye mocked his aristocratic manners. His leadership symbolised a Conservative Party out of touch with the progressive 1960s.
Why was Douglas-Home’s rise to power controversial?
He was chosen by Conservative MPs rather than through a public election, which seemed undemocratic.
What were the failures of Douglas-Home’s government?
It failed to address key social and economic issues, further reinforcing criticisms that the Conservatives were out of touch.
