It was a combination of factors. The Soviet Union had established itself as an alternative to capitalist predation, so the "welfare state" began to make sense as a concession from capitalists. Trade unionists and communist organizers on the ground risked revolution, so there was direct incentive to implement it.

Also, it came at the expense of marginalized peoples. Not only did many people not see the benefits domestically, but it was propped up by pilfering surplus value from the global south.

Meanwhile the middle class bots on reddit are endlessly crying about the UK raising the minimum wage. Yeah, how dare the poor get anything if it might slightly impact those on over £40k.

Genuinely heard complaints that we can't raise the minimum wage because it will make the cost of living worse.

No longer on minimum wage myself, but I say crank it as hard as fucking possible, to just below the point it actually causes a significant increase in unemployment. Currently under 5% so its clearly NOT too high yet. I have enough now, I want the guy stacking the shelves in Tesco to have enough too.