The centenary of two influential figures in the conservative movement—William F. Buckley Jr. and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher—arrives in March 2024. Both individuals significantly shaped political discourse, yet their legacies often receive less recognition from mainstream historians and media, particularly those with liberal leanings. This article reflects on their contributions and the enduring relevance of their philosophies.
William F. Buckley Jr.: A Defender of Conservative Ideals
William F. Buckley Jr. played a pivotal role in advocating for conservative values throughout the latter half of the 20th century. He founded the National Review magazine in 1955, serving as a platform for conservative thought during a time when such views were marginalized. Buckley’s ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and humor set him apart, allowing him to engage effectively with liberal critics.
His famous quip about preferring to trust the first 400 names in the Boston telephone directory over the faculty of Harvard University exemplified his sharp wit and critique of elite institutions. Buckley’s response to a question about his seated television appearances—“It’s very, very hard to stand up carrying the weight of what I know”—showcased his quick thinking and intellectual prowess, earning laughter from audiences.
Buckley’s literary contributions extended beyond magazine articles; he authored numerous books and even built a harpsichord, which he played at Carnegie Hall. These achievements highlight his multi-faceted talents, reflecting a man who was both intellectually rigorous and artistically inclined.
Margaret Thatcher: Reshaping British Politics
As the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Margaret Thatcher faced fierce opposition, particularly from the British Left. Her policies aimed at dismantling socialist programs that, in her view, had weakened the nation’s economic and social fabric. Thatcher firmly believed in the power of individualism, famously stating, “There is no such thing as society. There are individual men and women, and there are families.” This perspective emphasized personal responsibility over government dependency.
During her tenure, Thatcher implemented significant reforms that included reducing inflation from an annual rate of 18 percent to 5.5 percent, addressing union militancy, and privatizing inefficient state-owned industries. In an article for the periodical Modern Age: A Conservative Review, author Christopher Sandford noted her remarkable achievements, stating, “In her first term alone, she oversaw measures that lowered inflation… and privatized inefficient state industries.”
Thatcher’s legacy is often viewed through a contentious lens. Critics accuse her of prioritizing her ideological beliefs over consensus politics. Yet for many, she remains a symbol of strong leadership and economic revitalization, serving as the last recognizably great British Prime Minister.
Reflecting on both Buckley and Thatcher, it is clear that their philosophies continue to resonate in contemporary political discourse. Their emphasis on personal responsibility, individual achievement, and skepticism of government intervention offers insights that modern politicians could benefit from embracing.
As we commemorate the centenary of these two conservative icons, their impact on politics and society serves as a reminder of the enduring power of their ideas.
