Thatcherism 1979-87: Foreign affairs
The Falklands
Special relationship
Cold War
Relations with Europe
Conservative divisions over Europe
Thatcher as an international figure
Her tough stance against the societies earned her the nickname ‘the Iron Lady’.
She showed herself willing to work with her European allies in strengthening the EEC.
By 1987, Thatcher was a respected stateswoman.
The previously unpopular government soared in opinion polls and Thatcher was supported by the media such as the Sun headline 'Gotcha!'
The success led to a surge of patriotism and national pride, as Britain reclaimed its position as a world power.
After Argentinian forces invaded the Falkland Islands, Thatcher's immediate response was to send a naval task force to remove the Argentinian forces as it was a British colony and many islanders were keen to say British.
Critics believed the was was unnecessary as Britain would sooner or later end up negotiating a deal with Argentina over the Falklands.
1982, 200,000 ppl marched with the CND against nuclear weapons.
1984, Thatcher and Gorbachev met - showing her willingness to directly confornt the USSR and end the Cold War.
There was genuine fear of nuclear war between the East and West. - This can be reflect din gov published Protect + survive booklets which told ppl what to do in the event of a nuclear attack.
Thatcher encourage Reagan to negotiate with Gorbachev and they met in 1986 - paved the way for progress and 1987 a treaty was signed beginning the process of mutual disarmament.
Thatcher's willingness to support the US in the Cold War can be seen by her letting US cruise missiles be based in Britain.
The Falklands war and Britain being a base of US cruise missiles, reflects the strong relationship.
However, 1983, the US invaded Grenada after a communist coup against the advice of Thatcher - this somewhat weakened the relationship but not significantly as Reagan apologised to Thatcher.
Thatcher and Ronald Reagan had a close bond, with similar ideology.
1986, Thatcher allowed the US to use British air bases to bomb Libya - this was unpopular in Britain.
During the early 80s most of her cabinet were pro-Europe favouring the creation and strengthening of a free market across the EEC.
1986, Westland affair: Thatcher wanted the failing British helicopter company to be taken over by a US company, whereas Heseltine favoured a takeover from Europe. Heseltine beloved Thatcher was unconstitutional in blocking the conversation and not letting concerns of a US takeover public. He resigned in 1986, highlighting divisions.
The Single European Act was debated in Britain, but only a few conservative mps spoke against it, like Enoch Powell.
1986, Single European Act: It established the possibility of a European Monetary union.
In 1987, it was clear the Conservative party appeared to be a broadly pro-European party and Britain's future was within the EEC.
1986, Anglo-French agreement: Thatcher established a good relationship with the French president , which led to the Channel Tunnel project, which was agreed in 1986. This was also a symbolic link between Britain and France.
1984, British rebate: Thatcher believed Britain was paying in more than was being returned in benefits in the EEC, so wanted a better deal for Britain . She successfully achieved a rebate which conservatives liked but it irritated some EEC countries.
1982