The Thatcher years

On the 20th anniversary of Margaret Thatcher's first election victory, BBC News Online remembers her premiership.

The first woman party leader and prime minister, Margaret Thatcher ruled the United Kingdom for longer than any other post-war leader. She brought a unique, indomitable approach to the job.

• Memories of the 1979 election
• An A-Z of Thatcherism
• Thatcher: The post-power era
• Robin Oakley on Thatcher

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The poll tax, the Falklands War, the miners' strike and the drive towards a more market-orientated society through the floatation of state-owned companies stand out in the Thatcher years.

• Highlights of a three-term reign
• The Thatcher legacy
• Is Thatcherism dead?

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One of Margaret Thatcher's loyalist admirers was her press secretary Bernard Ingham. On the other side, Ken Livingstone, then leader of the Greater London Council, provided fierce opposition from across the Thames. Here, they reflect on the Thatcher era.

• Livingstone looks back in anger
• Bernard Ingham pays tribute

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Baroness Thatcher remains a character who can generate headlines around the world with a single sternly raised eyebrow. Her ultimate impact may take time to assess, but her present influence suggests she will be remembered for decades to come.

• Nick Assinder reflects
• How life has changed
• Thatcher's children