London Socialist Historians Group
23rd October
Contact Dr Keith Flett 07803 167266
Historians say graffiti on Thatcher statue is ‘living history’
The London Socialist Historians Group, which organises the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research, University of London, has said that ‘Tories Out’ graffiti which has been added to a statue of Margaret Thatcher in Grantham represents not vandalism but a living history.
Statues have become part of a Tory Culture War with Ministers determined to defend those of slave traders and colonialists.
The statue of Thatcher in her town of Grantham has been and continues to be controversial. However the ‘Tories Out’ slogan is on the plinth and does not impact the figure of the late Tory leader. Rather it gives a sense that while Mrs Thatcher had much support as Prime Minister she also generated a large amount of opposition.
London Socialist Historians Group convenor Dr Keith Flett said, just as Margaret Thatcher was a controversial and contested politician it seems reasonable that a statue of her should also have the same status. She was certainly venerated by some but many others she was hated. That is an historical reality that should be reflected.
Leave a Reply