The Interwar Years, World War II and Britain in the 1940s and 1950s

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on Britain during the Interwar years and the post-World War II period, focusing on economic changes, societal impacts, and significant political developments.

What characterized Britain's economy during the Interwar years (1919-1939)?

Britain's economy was plagued by economic difficulties, depression, and stagnation.

What was the coal production in Britain in 1913 compared to 1937?

In 1913 coal production was 287 million tonnes, and by 1937 it had decreased to 227 million tonnes.

What was the unemployment rate in Britain during the Interwar years?

The unemployment rate never went below 1 million workers, reaching 2,700,000 in 1932.

Which new industrial sectors developed in Britain during the Interwar years?

The electric, electronic, automotive, aviation, pharmaceutical, photographic, plastic, rubber, and synthetic textile industries.

How did agriculture progress in Britain during the Interwar years?

Agriculture diversified and mechanized due to government support and protectionist policies.

What was the increase in agricultural mechanization from 1939 to 1951?

In 1939 there were 150 combine harvesters; by 1951, British agriculture had become one of the most mechanized in the world.

What was the growth rate of national income between 1920 and 1938?

National income increased at a rate of 2.1% per year.

What percentage of industrial output did traditional industrial regions produce in 1937?

In 1937, traditional industrial regions produced 37% of the industrial output.

Which regions experienced population decline during the Interwar years?

Northumberland-Durham and South Wales lost 1% and 9% of their populations, respectively.

What significant political change occurred in Britain after World War II?

The Labour party gained a huge majority in the House of Commons in July 1945.

What was the result of the National Insurance Act 1946?

It established a comprehensive system of national security covering maternity, unemployment, and pensions.

What were the limitations of the Welfare State established after World War II?

The government did not address private education or the financial sector, allowing social segregation to persist.

How much did wages rise above the 1938 level by 1951?

Wages rose to 30% above their 1938 level.

What does 'Butskellism' refer to in the context of British politics?

It refers to the general consensus among the political class during the early post-war period, characterized by a compromise between Labour and Conservative policies.

Who were the leaders of successive conservative governments from 1951 to 1964?

Churchill, Eden, Macmillan, and Douglas-Home led the Conservative governments during this period.