Who shattered the glass ceiling first by becoming the UK's first female Prime Minister?

Margaret Thatcher holds a unique place in British history as the first female Prime Minister. Before her, the highest political offices were exclusively held by men. Thatcher's rise to power in 1979 was a significant moment, breaking what's often called the "glass ceiling" – an invisible barrier preventing women from reaching top positions. She led the Conservative Party and served for over a decade, implementing significant economic and social reforms. Her strong leadership style earned her the nickname "The Iron Lady." While Theresa May also served as Prime Minister, she came later, and therefore wasn't the first. Mary Stuart, or Mary Queen of Scots, was a monarch in the 16th century, long before the role of Prime Minister existed in its modern form. Florence Nightingale, while a remarkable figure, was famous for her pioneering work in nursing, not politics. So, while all these women are important figures in British history, it was Margaret Thatcher who first broke that political barrier.