British Post-War Society Transformation: 1945-1959
Unit 9: The New British Society (1945-1959)
Key Transformations in Post-War Britain
Post-war Britain saw significant societal shifts. State intervention became prominent, women were seen smoking, and television became accessible to a wider audience. Comics enjoyed immense popularity, and tea and coffee were essential commodities. Middle-class families often watched television together, showcasing their fashionable attire. This era marked a period of substantial immigration, fostering a more multicultural society.
Several factors contributed to the transformation of British society over the past 70 years:
- The increased prominence of women and young people.
- The impact of immigration and ethnicity.
- The erosion of social deference and class barriers.
Notable differences emerged in relationships between parents and children, as well as teachers and pupils. Class divisions persisted, with social standing often reflected in speech; Received Pronunciation (RP) English was taught in schools. Clement Attlee’s post-war government and Thatcherism in the 1980s were major nation-changing periods.
9.1. Foundations for Rebuilding Britain
By the end of World War II, Britain was virtually bankrupt and faced a daunting reconstruction task:
- It could only cover 40% of its overseas expenditures.
- Two-thirds of its merchant fleet had been lost.
- Energy and food supplies were strictly rationed, leading to the emergence of a black market.
- Housing, factories, schools, and hospitals, particularly in cities like London and Liverpool, suffered heavy damage from enemy bombing and required extensive rebuilding.
A post-war inter-party consensus emerged on these strategic points:
- The Keynesian principle of state intervention in the economy to prevent unemployment, rationalize production, and ensure peace and prosperity. Key sectors like transport, energy, and electricity, previously private, were nationalized.
- The necessity of social reform to eradicate extreme inequalities and provide equal opportunities, as outlined in Sir William Beveridge’s 1942 report on Social Insurance and Allied Services. Access to healthcare was a major concern, as many could not afford medical services. Unemployment was another pressing issue that needed to be addressed.
9.2. Post-War Reconstruction (1945-1951)
The Labour Party, under Clement Attlee’s leadership, achieved a landslide victory over the Conservatives, led by wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill, in the 1945 election. This outcome surprised many, including Churchill himself. The Conservatives, having governed for much of the interwar period, had failed to resolve Britain’s social and economic issues and adequately prepare the nation for the threat of German expansionism. While Churchill was known for his powerful oratory and gruff tone, Attlee presented a more modest image. Labour was perceived as the party of ordinary people, advocating for equal opportunities and a brighter future, while the Conservatives were associated with privilege, wealth, and nostalgia.