A Liberal government created a welfare state which provided people with a minimum standard of living.  1946 a new government passed the National Insructions Act and National Health Service Act. ( think of Social Security programs for the poor or elder)  Medical Care for everyone ( Universal Health care)

Then in the 1950’s a Conservative government took over, they extended the welfare state programs to add more housing for people.

Margaret Thatcher as Prime Minister wanted to limit the welfare state and limit trade unions and stop inflation.

Her programs impacted small businesses and increased the power of business. 

Thatcher dominated in the 1980’s but resigned in the 1990’s when her popularity went down.

The British Empire dissolved after World War II and they lost all of their colonies.

The British became America’s number 1 ally in Europe.