Living on rations

uk 50s ration book
Basics goods were still rationed until the middle of the 1950s.

The 1950s were a time of repair after the damage wrought by World War II, and adjustment to the loss of colonies such as India.

Coupons for food and clothing were in use until 1954.

But the rebuilding efforts gave a boost to the economy. The U.K. experienced full employment, and living standards improved greatly in the latter part of the decade.

Televisions, vacuum cleaners and fridges became the norm, leading Prime Minister Harold McMillan to declare most people had "never had it so good."

First published September 9, 2015: 8:43 AM ET

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