The Affluent Society 1951 - 1964 Flashcards
What economic policy did the Labour government adopt after World War II?
Keynesian economics involving US loans to invest in industry
This policy led to the nationalization of 20% of industry and maintained full employment.
What was Clause V in the Labour Party’s 1918 constitution?
A promise for full nationalization of industry
This clause represented a significant commitment to state control over the economy.
Who led the first full majority Labour government from 1945 to 1951?
Clement Attlee
Attlee’s government was characterized by significant social reforms and economic changes.
What ideology divided the Conservative Party after World War II?
Between ‘one nation conservatives’ who believed in change and traditional conservatives
This division impacted party unity and policy direction.
What major legislation gave women equal voting rights in 1928?
The Representation of the People Act
Despite gaining voting rights, women still faced workplace discrimination.
What educational reform was introduced by the 1944 Education Act?
The tripartite system of education
This act ensured that all children received an education and introduced the concept of a non-working youth.
What was a significant social promise made by the Labour government after WWII?
A welfare state ‘from cradle to grave’, including the NHS
This promise reflected a commitment to comprehensive social support and healthcare.
Fill in the blank: The decline of traditional staple industries in Britain led to huge unemployment, with intractable million facing joblessness and limited government assistance. Trade unions frequently went on strike, exemplified by the _______.
1926 General Strike
This strike was a major event in British labor history, highlighting the struggles of workers.
True or False: After World War II, both the Labour and Conservative parties agreed on a mixed economy and the establishment of a welfare state.
True
This agreement created a political consensus between the two major parties.
What was the impact of the economic policies following the two world wars on Britain?
Britain became heavily indebted and reliant on US loans
This dependence influenced post-war economic strategies and recovery efforts.
What was a key commitment of Britain by 1951?
Commitment to full employment
This reflected the government’s aim to ensure that everyone who wanted to work could find a job.
How many new homes were built by the government?
807,000 new homes - council houses
This was part of the effort to address housing shortages.
What did the Rowntree Study reveal?
Less poverty
The study highlighted improvements in living standards.
What significant healthcare initiative was introduced during this period?
NHS - Access to healthcare
The National Health Service was established to provide healthcare to all citizens.
Who won the support of doctors for the NHS?
Bevan
Aneurin Bevan was instrumental in founding the NHS.
What was the outcome of the National Assistance Act 1948?
Ended the poor law and negative stigma
It provided assistance to those who were destitute.
What economic strategy was employed to prevent another depression?
IMF and world bank
These institutions aimed to stabilize the global economy.
What was a significant weakness in Britain’s economy by 1951?
Rationing continued and was extended
This indicated ongoing economic difficulties post-war.
What major crisis occurred in 1946 and 1947?
Winter Crisis
This crisis led to a standstill in the country, increasing unemployment.
What was the unemployment rate during the Winter Crisis?
2 million
This marked a significant rise in unemployment.
What was the housing shortfall by 1951?
700,000
This shortage highlighted the ongoing challenges in housing provision.
What issue did the NHS face by 1951?
Shortage of staff, old buildings, costs
These factors contributed to challenges in healthcare delivery.
What was one of the consequences of the Korean War for Britain?
Created another deficit
The war put additional strain on the economy.
True or False: Socialists believed nationalisation gave enough power to workers.
False
There were divisions within the labour party regarding the extent of power given to workers.
What was a significant economic condition faced by Britain in this period?
Reliant on US loans
This dependence indicated vulnerabilities in the British economy.
What was the purpose of the 1951 Festival of Britain?
Cultural celebration and economic boost
It aimed to promote British arts and innovation post-war.
What economic model was adopted by Britain by 1951?
Mixed economy/middle way
This approach combined elements of capitalism and socialism.
Fill in the blank: The National Assistance Act 1948 provided help for the _______.
destitute
This act was a significant step in welfare reform.
What was a key reason for Labour’s loss in the last election?
Labour was too focused on welfare, neglecting the economy and industry
This indicates a potential disconnect between Labour’s priorities and voter concerns.
How were Labour’s policies perceived during the last election?
Policies were half-hearted - not radical or too radical
This suggests a lack of clarity in Labour’s message and strategy.
What sentiment contributed to Labour’s electoral defeat?
People were tired of rations - austerity
This reflects a public desire for change from restrictive economic conditions.
What was a characteristic of the Labour Party during the last election?
Labour Party was getting tired and old
This could imply a lack of fresh ideas or leadership within the party.
What was a significant factor in the Conservatives’ victory?
Conservatives had Churchill - wartime experience
Churchill’s leadership during WWII may have inspired confidence in Conservative governance.
What aspect of Conservative ideology contributed to their success?
Ideological safety of conservation
This suggests that voters felt more secure with Conservative policies.
What demographic advantage did the Conservatives have?
More youthful cabinet
A younger leadership may appeal to younger voters seeking modern representation.