The New Statesman: politics and culture 100 years of Thatcher, with Charles Moore
14 snips
Oct 18, 2025 Charles Moore, the prize-winning biographer of Margaret Thatcher, dives deep into the legacy of the Iron Lady. He reflects on her unparalleled influence as Britain's first female PM, shaping politics and journalism alike. Moore shares personal anecdotes from his encounters with Thatcher, revealing her determination and competitive spirit. They discuss the cultural impact of her policies, her nuanced views on society, and how her legacy shapes contemporary politics. From her roots in Grantham to the complexities of modern Thatcherism, this conversation is both enlightening and captivating.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Power Through Electoral Success
- Margaret Thatcher was the most consequential peacetime British politician because she won every election she contested.
- That allowed her sustained time in office to implement sweeping and lasting change.
First Close Encounters
- Charles Moore first encountered Margaret Thatcher closely while covering the 1983 election and later met her properly at a 1985 Commons dinner.
- He gradually built a personal rapport that informed his authorized biography through later interviews and access.
Solitude Shaped Her Character
- Thatcher's solitary position as a woman in a male-dominated world shaped her character and public persona.
- That uniqueness made her a more compelling and different biographical subject than typical male politicians.
