2. France and Britain in the 1980s: two economic models and two societies in evolution

Key issues
  • Was there a ‘Thatcher Revolution’, 1979-1990?
  • ‘A radical and successful break with the past.’ Assess the validity of this view of Thatcherism.
  • ‘A socialist in name only.’ With reference to the 1981-88 period, how far do you agree with this view of François Mitterrand?
  • With reference to his first term of office (1981-1988), assess the impact of Mitterrand’s presidency on France.


Key terms

  • Thatcherism
  • Privatisation (Britain)
  • Cohabitation (France)
  • Austerity (France)


Discussion points

  • Miners’ Strike (1984)
  • Big Bang (1986)
  • The Austerity Plan (France)
  • The Birth of the RMI (France)