Who was the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom?

The first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom was Margaret Thatcher, who served from 1979 to 1990. Thatcher was a pioneering figure in British and global politics, as she broke through the gender barriers that had long existed in leadership roles. Her tenure is marked by significant economic reforms, her strong conservative policies, and her role in international relations, particularly during the Cold War. Thatcher’s leadership style, often characterized by her determined and assertive approach, earned her the nickname "The Iron Lady." This historic milestone not only represented a breakthrough for women in politics but also had a lasting impact on the political landscape of the UK and beyond.

Other options provided refer to notable female leaders, but they were not Prime Ministers of the UK—Angela Merkel served as Chancellor of Germany, while Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India. Theresa May, who followed Thatcher in the UK, was not the first but rather the second female Prime Minister.