Daily Politics from the New Statesman 100 years of Thatcher, with Charles Moore
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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.
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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.
Grantham Roots And City Ambition
- Thatcher grew up in Grantham; her father ran a grocery and was a Methodist lay preacher and local politician.
- Those provincial values plus a taste for glamour and the city influenced her blend of seriousness and style.
Character Over Genius
- Young Margaret Roberts showed not a genius but remarkable character: competitiveness, persistence and practicality.
- Those traits, more than abstract intellect, powered her political rise.
