Margaret Thatcher was the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, serving from 1979 to 1990. A member of the Conservative Party, she was known for her strong leadership style and economic policies, often referred to as "Thatcherism." Her government focused on reducing the power of trade unions, privatizing state-owned industries, and promoting free-market principles. Born on October 13, 1925, in Grantham, England, Thatcher studied chemistry at Oxford University before entering politics. She became the Member of Parliament for Finchley in 1959 and held various cabinet positions before becoming Prime Minister. Her tenure significantly impacted British society and politics.