Brutalism is an architectural style that emerged in Great Britain in the 1950s, rising from the need for affordable, functional post-WWII reconstruction. Characterized by its use of raw, exposed concrete, bold geometric forms, and a focus on structural clarity, it spread internationally, though its association with large-scale, often polarizing public buildings like government offices and social housing gave it a somewhat controversial reputation. The term "brutalism" comes from the French term béton brut, meaning "raw concrete," and was popularized by British architectural critic Reyner Banham.