The welfare state established in post-war Britain was characterized by the government's commitment to social security and the provision of basic welfare services to citizens. This approach aimed to address the social inequalities exacerbated by World War II and offered support in areas such as healthcare, education, and housing. The National Health Service (NHS) was launched in 1948, providing free medical care to all citizens. The idea was to ensure that no one fell into poverty due to illness or unemployment, thus fostering a more equitable society. This model significantly influenced social policies in other nations.