英美概况第五单元.ppt

Unit 5：The UK Economy Absolute Decline and Relative Decline  1.by the 1880s---the dominant position--- “The workshop of the world” 1) 1/3 of the world’s manufactured goods 2) produced half its coal and iron; half its cotton 3) shipping amount greater than that of the rest of the world put together 2.by 1900 the UK has been overtaken by both the United States and Germany 3.from1945 until the present, the UK economy is usually thought of as one of decline Questions:  Is the third statement true? What are the reasons for describing this period as one of decline? The Reasons for the period of Decline (1-5 reasons) 1. After World War II, the UK had gone heavily into debt in order to finance the war, selling many of its accumulated overseas assets, and borrowing large amounts from the US and Canada. 2.The era of empire was over. British colonies which used to provide raw materials and big markets gained independence —the end of the era of empire. 3.Britain was heavily burdened with the huge military expenditure during the process of decolonization. 4.Britain lacked the investment in 5.The lack of a close relationship between industry and banks. The UK Economy’s Relative Decline 1.Britain is a lot more wealthier and more productive than it was in 1945; 2.Though it has improved, other countries have improved more rapidly. Results: Workers struck for more pay. The government was in debt. Imports were more than exports. Solution: A change of government In 1979, the Conservative Party under Margaret Thatcher, with the promise of a radical program of reform. Questions: 1.What reform did her government carry out? 2.Was the reform successful? Privatization Positive consequences: The inflation was under control. Companies were more efficient, being able to pay higher wages and make higher profits. Negative consequences: A rapid increase in unemployment The public services became worse. Recent History(1-4) 2. Economic recovery in