History

Course summary

Students will follow the Edexcel A Level specification Route H: Democracies in change: Britain and the USA in the twentieth century. Route H studies how the two leading western democracies responded and adapted to the challenges brought about by the greater political, social and economic expectations of ordinary people. Studying two different countries allows students to develop a greater understanding of the challenges experienced by Britain and the USA, and of the contrasts and similarities in the responses. Paper 1: Britain transformed, 1918–97. This option comprises a study of British history from the end of the First World War in 1918 to the election of Tony Blair as Prime Minister in 1997. During this time Britain was challenged by war, fluctuations in the economy, technological advancement and the desire for greater social equality. This option also contains a study in depth of historical interpretations on a broad question, which is contextualised by, and runs on from, the themes: what impact Thatcher’s governments had on Britain, 1979–97 Paper 2: The USA, 1955–92: conformity and challenge. This option comprises a study in depth of the USA in the years 1955–92, from post-1945 affluence, through racial and political protests in the 1960s, to the rise of rightwing groups in the 1980s and the development of bitter divisions between Democrats and Republicans. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges posed to the American political system by popular protests and different styles of leadership, and the effects on society. Paper 3: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603. This option focuses on the breadth and depth of the nature of rebellion and disorder under the Tudors and the way the various challenges were met. The option enables students to explore the way in which, despite a shaky start, the Tudors were able to establish their dynasty as one of the most powerful England has seen. Coursework: The purpose of this coursework is to enable students to develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history in a chosen question as part of an independently researched assignment. We have chosen to investigate in depth the Civil Rights Movement in the USA, looking at the different emphasis placed on significant figures and movements using a range of historian interpretations.