Is It True That Many Old People in Britain Voted Brexit Because They Did Not Want to Be Under Germany's Thumb?

The popular assumption is often that older people in Britain voted for Brexit, but this is a generalization without substantial evidence. The notion that one's age determines their political views is problematic, and a closer look at the demographics and statistics of the 2016 EU referendum will reveal that the motivations for voting are multifaceted and not solely based on age.

A Student's Perspective on the EU Referendum

While working in a secondary school, I observed a diverse group of students, including those of various backgrounds and ethnicities, voting in a mock general election. The results mirrored the real referendum, with 52% voting for Brexit and 48% for Remain. This suggests that age is not the primary factor influencing a person's decision to vote for Brexit. People made choices based on their individual circumstances and beliefs, not their age.

As an example, I myself voted for Brexit, not due to any German dominance or other European countries, but because I felt that a one-size-fits-all approach to law, rules, and taxation doesn't always suit each country. Brexit allowed for more freedom of choice and a sovereignty to make our own decisions. My love for British culture and celebrating it aligns with other Europeans who wish to celebrate their unique histories and cultures. There is no one country or group that is inherently better than another.

Statistical Analysis of the Referendum Results

The referendum itself was remarkably close, with a margin of just 3%. In the subsequent 3 years, two significant changes affected the demographic makeup of the electorate. Approximately 2 million young people became old enough to vote, while around 1.8 million older people passed away. This shift in the voting population contributed to a large majority for the Prime Minister who had promised to enact Brexit.

The result of this demographic change was a clear mandate for Brexit, demonstrating that the voting pattern was not solely influenced by age. The political landscape was influenced by various factors, and the outcome reflected the collective decision of the electorate rather than just the preferences of older voters.

Common Misconceptions and the Reality of Elderly Voters

Regardless of the myths surrounding elderly voters, it is crucial to understand that they are a diverse group. One personal example is an elderly friend of mine who was disabled and had little to no fear of the dark. Her vote for Brexit was driven by a desire for a better future for her children and grandchildren. Another friend, who helps people with disabilities, also voted for Brexit to avoid being under the thumb of any one entity.

Many elderly voters felt that the EU was not serving their best interests, ensuring that their country had the autonomy to make decisions that would benefit them. They were not afraid of the unknown but instead sought a future that they believed was in the best interest of the UK. It's not just young people who valued the principle of fairness and transparency, as demonstrated by the many who voted Remain to avoid the realities of world trade rules and the various challenges faced by EU member states.

Ultimately, the complexity of the Brexit decision goes beyond age. The motivations for voting are deeply rooted in personal experiences, cultural heritage, and a desire for national sovereignty. Understanding the multifaceted reasons behind the vote helps to dissect the myth and provides a more accurate portrayal of the electorate in the 2016 EU referendum.