Dan Snow's History Hit How did Brexit Happen? A History
Jul 1, 2024
Professor Tim Bale discusses the historical journey of Brexit from Britain's initial integration with the EU to the divisive referendum. Topics include Labour's stance on European integration, Theresa May's struggles with Brexit execution, potential post-Brexit scenarios, and the effects of Brexit on the UK economy and society.
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Foundations of European Integration
- The European Economic Community used economic ties as a foundation to foster political integration.
- Britain remained suspicious, valuing national sovereignty and fearing capitalist dominance early on.
Britain's Motives to Join EEC
- Britain's drive to join the EEC in the 1960s was driven by economic concerns and the decline of empire.
- The EEC promised economic dynamism and a new role beyond the fading British Empire.
Thatcher's Complex EU Role
- Margaret Thatcher was paradoxically both a Eurosceptic and a key figure in advancing European integration.
- She secured the EU budget rebate but opposed deeper political integration, exemplified by her criticism in 1988.