The National Coal Board (NCB) was established in the United Kingdom in 1947 to oversee the coal industry, which was nationalized after World War II. Its primary role was to manage coal production, distribution, and the welfare of miners, ensuring a stable supply of coal for energy and industry. The NCB operated until 1994, when it was privatized and restructured into several companies. During its existence, the NCB played a crucial role in the economic development of the UK, particularly in regions dependent on coal mining, such as South Wales and Yorkshire.