Margaret Thatcher

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Margaret Thatcher by Kenneth Harris

Introduction and Synopsis

They say , some are born great , some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them . Margaret Thatcher belongs to the second category . Political revolution is the word associated with her governance of Britain . It was during her reign , that the influence of Communism was at peak , and her resolute efforts to contain it , will be remembered by the democratic forces all over the world . One can find in her decisions and actions , the best qualities of the politician as well

br as the perfect administrator . According to Kenneth Harris , she knew how to frame a policy and implement it in any area . Tough political leaders invite tough responses . Those who did not like the policies of Thatcherism have liked theless , Margaret Thatcher , the person . `Do not strike , if you strike , strike hard and see that there is no need strike again ' was her policy as for important issues on which she took decisions . Her political convictions were strong , and her opponents knew that once she arrived at a decision she will not budge an inch from that position . To be the Prime Minister of a country like Britain , which has dominant role in world politics , during toughest peace-time history of the 20th century , is no ordinary achievement . She richly deserved the Iron Lady `title ' Harris traces the history of her political ascendancy in the first term , and goes to analyze the dynamics of Tory politics that capitalized more than its expectations , during her second term . The incomplete third term was more eventful . In May 1979 , Margaret Thatcher occupied 10 , Downing Street little did she realize that it was the beginning of her illustrious career as Prime Minister for 11 eventful years . Britain was passing through a period of sluggishness on all fronts according to Thatcher on account of post-war policies adopted by Attlee and the Governments later on . By the time she laid down the Office in 1990 , Britain was a different country both politically and socially . The power of trade unions had been rolled back considerably privatization was a reality rather than the dream of some conservative think-tanks , and Socialism was dead as a serious political ideal or movement in British politics and society ( www . suite

Analysis

All the three above developments had to happen because they are inter-related , each one influences and leads to the other . Did these developments take place on account of the dynamic initiatives of Margaret Thatcher-- is the question raised by many . In a democratic set up , the Opposition needs certain issues for its survival and growth as a political force , and this is one such issue . In democracy , the top leader does invariably get rewards for the good results and reprimand for the wrong policies . The changes were substantive , without the solid backup and support , they would not have happened . Supporting this view Kenneth Harris argues that the Thatcher Government must be seen as one of the most important Governments in the twentieth century Britain...