Post War Boom Flashcards
(12 cards)
What was the ‘Post-War Boom’?
A period of economic growth in the 1950s, helped by the end of rationing, a baby boom, full employment, and rising living standards
What did Harold Macmillan mean by saying the British people “never had it so good”?
In 1957, Macmillan highlighted the prosperity and improved living conditions of the 1950s under Conservative leadership.
When did food rationing end in Britain?
1954
What was the ‘Age of Affluence’?
A term for the 1950s, reflecting growing prosperity, rising wages, increased consumerism, and a higher standard of living.
What was the ‘Golden Age of Employment’?
A time in the 1950s of near full employment, government commitment to job security, strong trade unions, and good working conditions.
What was the estimated unemployment rate by 1955?
Less than 1% – only about 200,000 people unemployed.
What led to the ‘Baby Boom’ in the 1950s?
Many couples delayed marriage and having children during WWII. After the war, returning soldiers started families, increasing the birth rate.
What caused the consumer boom in the 1950s?
Economic growth, rising incomes, low unemployment, and ‘give-away’ budgets by Conservative chancellors like Rab Butler.
What is a ‘Give-Away Budget’?
A government budget with generous tax cuts to boost disposable income and increase public support, used in 1955 and 1959.
What was a ‘Property-Owning Democracy’?
A Conservative ideal where more people were encouraged to buy homes, with easier access to mortgages and loans.
How did the structure of employment change in the 1950s?
Employment in service industries (finance, transport, sales) grew to match that of traditional heavy industries.
What were some indicators of affluence by the late 1950s?
Higher incomes, more jobs, increased car and appliance ownership, better housing, and expanded welfare provisions.
