Introduction
The decade between 1987 and 1997 witnessed profound political change in Britain. Margaret Thatcher’s dominance collapsed amid internal party rebellions and growing public hostility, while John Major’s government faced economic crises, European divisions and relentless accusations of corruption. Meanwhile, the Labour Party underwent a remarkable transformation under Neil Kinnock, John Smith and ultimately Tony Blair, shedding its image of unelectability and rebranding itself as “New Labour.” By the 1997 general election, Britain had entered a new political consensus: one that accepted free-market economics but placed renewed emphasis on social liberalism, constitutional reform and modernisation.
“The years between Thatcher’s fall and Blair’s rise are often overlooked, but they are essential for understanding how Britain shifted from old battles over the economy and society to a new political consensus. Major’s government grappled with crises and decline, while Labour slowly redefined itself for the modern age. For students, this is a chance to see transition in action, a bridge between the Thatcher revolution and the Blair era. This guide will help you master the turning points, controversies and leadership changes, giving you the tools to explain not just what happened, but why it set the stage for Britain’s political future.”
Matt
Founder, Apollo Scholars
FAQs on Thatcher’s Fall, Major and the Rise of New Labour
Q: What was Black Wednesday?
A: Black Wednesday (16 September 1992) was when Britain crashed out of the ERM, causing huge economic embarrassment for John Major’s government.
Q: Why did Thatcher fall from power in 1990?
A: Thatcher fell due to economic troubles, the poll tax, divisions over Europe and a leadership challenge from Michael Heseltine.
Q: What made New Labour different from “old” Labour?
A: New Labour accepted market economics, distanced itself from trade union dominance and embraced social liberalism and constitutional reform.
Q: Why was the Conservative government seen as corrupt in the 1990s?
A: A series of scandals involving Conservative MPs, dubbed “sleaze,” damaged the party’s moral authority.
From here, premium subscribers can access: a detailed analysis of the fall of Thatcher, John Major’s premiership, Black Wednesday, Conservative divisions and sleaze, Labour’s realignment under Kinnock, Smith and Blair, and an in-depth breakdown of the political and social factors that paved the way for Labour’s 1997 landslide victory.
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