As a historian with a focus on British politics, I often find myself pondering the question of who can be considered the greatest British prime minister. This is a complex and subjective question, as greatness can be measured by various criteria, such as leadership qualities, impact on the nation, and the legacy they left behind. Here's an analysis of some of the notable figures mentioned and their contributions to Britain.

Winston Churchill is often cited as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, due to his leadership during World War II. His oratory skills, determination, and resilience in the face of the Nazi threat are legendary. Churchill's ability to inspire the British people during the Blitz and his strategic decisions contributed significantly to the Allied victory. However, his tenure also had its controversies, such as the handling of the Bengal Famine and his policies towards India.

Clement Attlee, another name that comes up frequently, led the Labour government from 1945 to 1951. Attlee's government is known for its significant social reforms, including the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) and the implementation of the Welfare State. His leadership in the post-war era was marked by a commitment to social justice and the creation of a more equitable society.

Margaret Thatcher, the first female prime minister, served from 1979 to 1990. Known as the "Iron Lady," Thatcher's tenure was characterized by her free-market economic policies, deregulation, and privatization of state-owned industries. While she is credited with reviving the British economy and standing up to trade unions, her policies also led to significant social and economic disparities.

Harold Macmillan, prime minister from 1957 to 1963, is remembered for his "wind of change" speech, which acknowledged the shift of power from Europe to Africa. Macmillan's government saw a period of relative economic prosperity and social change.

Harold Wilson served two non-consecutive terms from 1964 to 1970 and 1974 to 1976. Wilson is often associated with efforts to modernize the British economy and society, as well as his role in attempting to navigate Britain's place within Europe during a time of change.

Tony Blair, who led the Labour Party from 1997 to 2007, is credited with a "Third Way" approach that blended social democracy with free-market capitalism. His government oversaw devolution in Scotland and Wales, and he played a significant role on the international stage, particularly in relation to the Iraq War, which remains a controversial aspect of his legacy.

Edward Heath, prime minister from 1970 to 1974, is known for taking the UK into the European Economic Community (EEC), which was a significant step towards European integration.

John Major succeeded Margaret Thatcher and served from 1990 to 1997. Major's tenure was marked by efforts to manage the aftermath of the Thatcher era and the challenges posed by European integration, including the signing of the Maastricht Treaty.

Each of these prime ministers had a unique impact on Britain, and the question of who was the greatest is often a matter of personal perspective and the criteria used to define "greatness." Some may value wartime leadership and the ability to inspire a nation, while others may prioritize social reform and the establishment of institutions that have lasting benefits for the population. Economic management, international relations, and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes are also factors that contribute to a prime minister's legacy.

In conclusion, while it is difficult to definitively say who the greatest British prime minister was, each of these leaders brought something significant to the role and left an indelible mark on British history.

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The full results were:Winston Churchill.Clement Attlee.Margaret Thatcher.Harold Macmillan.Harold Wilson.Tony Blair.Edward Heath.John Major.More items...read more >>