The "iron lady" of British politics is often referred to as Margaret Thatcher. She served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990 and is known for her strong conservative policies and leadership style. Thatcher's economic policies, often referred to as Thatcherism, focused on free-market principles, privatization of state-owned enterprises, and reducing the power of trade unions. Her firm stance against the Soviet Union during the Cold War and her commitment to economic liberalization significantly changed British society and politics, earning her the nickname "iron lady" for her uncompromising demeanor.