Margaret Thatcher, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, passed away on April 8th, 2013 at the age of 87. A powerful political figure and the first female Prime Minister of Britain, Thatcher's reign from 1979 to 1990 was marked by sweeping economic reforms and sweeping foreign policy success. She is remembered for her strong leadership and conviction, and for her iconic Iron Lady nickname. Born Margaret Roberts on October 13th, 1925 in Grantham, Lincolnshire, Thatcher studied chemistry at Somerville College, Oxford and became involved with the Conservative Party. In 1959 she was elected as MP for Finchley, and four years later, following Edward Heath's election as Prime Minister, Thatcher was appointed Secretary of State for Education and Science. In 1975 Thatcher was elected leader of the Conservative party, and two years later became the UK's first female Prime Minister. Once in office she implemented several policies, including the privatization of many publicly-owned businesses, restrictions on trade union activities, and tax cuts. In the realm of foreign policy, she was a staunch anti-communist, escalating tensions during the 1982 Falklands war, and supporting war efforts in the Middle East and Central America. Thatcher's time in office was divided between successes and controversy, yet in many ways her legacy has been long lasting and her political impact undeniable. After her resignation in 1990 she continued to advocate for her beliefs, chairing the Thatcher Foundation and writing several books, including her memoirs. She is survived by her two children and four grandchildren. Her husband, Denis, passed away in 2003.