Margaret Thatcher, often referred to as the 'Iron Lady', was a transformative figure in British politics, serving as the United Kingdom's first female Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990. Born on October 13, 1925, in Grantham, England, her early life was shaped by her family's grocery business and the conservative values imparted by her father. These formative experiences laid the foundation for her political ideology and leadership style, which would later define her tenure as a leader.

Thatcher's political career began with her election as a Member of Parliament for Finchley in the early 1950s. She quickly rose through the ranks of the Conservative Party, becoming its leader in 1975. Her leadership was marked by a series of significant reforms aimed at transforming the British economy and society. She championed free-market economics, privatized numerous state-owned industries, and implemented policies to reduce the influence of trade unions. These measures were instrumental in revitalizing the British economy during the 1980s, though they also led to increased unemployment and social unrest.

On the international stage, Thatcher was a staunch opponent of the Soviet Union during the Cold War, earning her the nickname 'Iron Lady' for her resolute stance. Her foreign policy was characterized by a strong alignment with the United States and a commitment to conservative principles. Domestically, her policies, such as the 'Right to Buy' scheme, significantly impacted British society, increasing home ownership but also contributing to a housing crisis. Her confrontational approach to trade unions, exemplified by the 1984-85 miners' strike, was a defining aspect of her governance.

Thatcher's legacy remains a subject of debate. While her policies are credited with revitalizing the British economy and reshaping the Conservative Party, they also drew criticism for exacerbating social inequalities and neglecting the needs of the working class. After resigning in 1990, she continued to influence global politics and advocate for conservative values until her death on April 8, 2013. Her impact on British society and global politics endures, making her one of the most significant and polarizing leaders of the 20th century.