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)