Timeline of British history (1990–present) Facts for Kids

This article shares a timeline of important events in the history of the United Kingdom from 1990 until today. It's like a quick look at what happened in the UK over the last few decades. You can find out more about the bigger story of the British Isles by checking out the history of the British Isles. If you want to learn about how politics changed, see Political history of the United Kingdom (1979–present). For how people's lives changed, look at Social history of the United Kingdom (1979–present).

Key Moments in UK History (1990-Present)

This section highlights some major events that shaped the United Kingdom from the 1990s onwards. These events include changes in government, important agreements, and big moments that affected everyone.

The 1990s: A Decade of Change

The 1990s brought many changes to the UK, both in politics and daily life. It was a time when new leaders came into power and important peace agreements were made.

Major Political Shifts

In 1990, Margaret Thatcher stepped down as Prime Minister. She had been in charge for a long time. John Major then became the new leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister. His time in office saw the UK dealing with economic challenges and its role in Europe.

1990: Margaret Thatcher resigns as Prime Minister. John Major takes over.
1992: The UK faces a tough economic day known as "Black Wednesday." The country leaves the European Exchange Rate Mechanism.
1997: The Labour Party, led by Tony Blair, wins a huge election victory. This ends 18 years of Conservative rule. Tony Blair becomes Prime Minister.

Peace in Northern Ireland

A very important event in the 1990s was the progress towards peace in Northern Ireland. After many years of conflict, known as "The Troubles," steps were taken to bring peace.

1998: The Good Friday Agreement is signed. This was a major peace deal for Northern Ireland. It aimed to end the conflict and create a power-sharing government.

The 2000s: New Millennium, New Challenges

The start of the new millennium brought new challenges and changes for the UK. The country faced global events and continued to evolve its society.

Global Events and UK Involvement

The 2000s saw the UK involved in international affairs, especially after the September 11 attacks in the United States.

2001: The UK supports the United States in the "War on Terror." British troops are sent to Afghanistan.
2003: The UK joins the US-led invasion of Iraq. This decision was very controversial.
2007: Tony Blair steps down as Prime Minister. Gordon Brown becomes the new Labour leader and Prime Minister.

Economic and Social Changes

The decade also saw important social changes and economic challenges, including a major financial crisis.

2008: The world experiences a big financial crisis. The UK government takes steps to support banks and the economy.
2009: The UK Parliament passes the Constitutional Reform Act. This changed how some parts of the government worked.

The 2010s: Referendums and Political Shifts

The 2010s were a decade of big political decisions, including important public votes that changed the UK's future.

Coalition Government and Referendums

After the 2010 election, the UK had its first coalition government in many years. This was followed by two major referendums.

2010: A general election results in a "hung parliament." The Conservative Party and Liberal Democrats form a coalition government. David Cameron becomes Prime Minister.
2014: Scotland holds a referendum on whether to become an independent country. Voters decide to remain part of the United Kingdom.
2016: The UK holds a referendum on whether to leave the European Union (EU). Voters choose to leave, a decision known as "Brexit." David Cameron resigns. Theresa May becomes Prime Minister.

Brexit Negotiations and Leadership Changes

The decision to leave the EU led to complex negotiations and further changes in leadership.

2017: A snap general election is called. The Conservative Party loses its majority but forms a government with support from the DUP.
2019: Theresa May resigns as Prime Minister. Boris Johnson becomes the new Conservative leader and Prime Minister. He aims to "get Brexit done."

The 2020s: A New Era Begins

The current decade has started with major global events and continued political developments in the UK.

Global Challenges and New Leadership

The early 2020s have been marked by a global health crisis and further changes in political leadership.

2020: The UK officially leaves the European Union on January 31st. The COVID-19 pandemic begins, leading to lockdowns and major changes across the country.
2022: Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch, passes away. Her son, Charles III, becomes King. Later in the year, Boris Johnson resigns as Prime Minister. Liz Truss briefly becomes Prime Minister, followed by Rishi Sunak.