Thatcherism and the New Politics

Abstract

During the 1970s British politics was unusually turbulent. As discontent multiplied and dissatisfaction with the conduct of government increased, so political debate became more polarised and few public institutions escaped censure and challenge. Many politicians and commentators across the political spectrum began to speak of turning-points and crises. The rise of Thatcherism and the fragmentation of the Left were signs of significant changes in British politics.