This volume gathers together contributions from a number of recognised experts and provides fresh insights into the connection between economic performance and socio-political change since the Second World War. It gives political evaluations of the Conservative and Labour parties and analyses the changing attitudes to their responsibilities: the welfare state, trade unions, housing, defence, education and nationalised industries for example. Concluding with an assessment of pop music and youth culture, the book spans the political, social and economic changes which have defined Britain since 1945.