41 years ago when Rap Industries was first founded, Britain was very different, but during a period which was rife with terrorism and economic turmoil, the reality was surprisingly similar to the Britain we live in today. The monarch, Queen Elizabeth II remains the same to this day and we have been through a wealth of prime ministers both good and bad. It was the year when Britain last voted on our participation in Europe and also the last time that junior doctors went on strike, showing many issues which affected Britain back then continue to affect us now.
In 1975, Harold Wilson’s Labour Party led the country during a double dip recession, which was very similar to the situation we have recently come through in Britain. At the same time, Margaret Thatcher rose to become the first female leader of the Conservative Party, all while miners accepted a 35% pay increase which would serve as a pre-cursor for the years to come. Meanwhile, the country voted on whether to leave the European community which was the international body that would later develop into the European Union. With a similar referendum occurring in 2016, it is well worth noting that 67% voted to remain in Europe over 40 years ago.
There is further correlation between the economy then and now as Britain entered a double dip recession in 1975 in scenes that have since been replicated far more recently. In fact, two of the major issues facing the country were rising inflation and unemployment rates which were setting levels unseen since records began in 1750. History showed that reaffirming our relationship in Europe led to an economic recovery, however whether that effect is direct or indirect, it will be interesting to see the direction Britain takes later this year.
While terrorism may only feel like a fairly recent phenomenon after the rise of groups such as Al-Qaeda, its origins began much closer to home. Britain has long had a tumultuous relationship with Ireland ever since Oliver Cromwell invaded during the 17th century as he sought to integrate the Emerald Isles with Britain. Ever since, Ireland has been divided between the Republic in the south and Northern Ireland who are ultimately split over whether to remain part of Britain. This boiled over during the 1970s as bombs were set off by the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) in tube stations as well as the London Hilton hotel.
In terms of popular culture, 1975 marked the beginning of cult classic television series including ‘Fawlty Towers’ and the now controversial ‘Jim’ll Fix it’. It also marked the birth of classic songs such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen and ‘Fame’ by David Bowie.
Certainly, a lot has indeed changed since Rap Industries first began manufacturing office equipment 41 years ago. Although, some of the similarities are quite remarkable, meanwhile others continue to have substantial impact on society today. One thing for sure is that as the world has continued to innovate, so have we, but not without keeping track of what matters most, the satisfaction of our customers.
