History at GCSE continues the themes studied in the latter part of Year 9. There is a focus on the 20^th Century World and events that shape the world that we live in today.

In terms of content we study the following

I.                    Paper 1: International Relations and Germany

International Relations:

• The aftermath of the First World War and the Peace Treaties.
• The establishment of the League of Nations and their role in solving disputes in the 20’s and 30’s.
• The causes of the Second World War, Hitler and Chamberlain’s role in appeasement.

Germany:

• The effects of the First World War on Germany
• The revolts and problems Germany suffered between 1919 and 1923.
• The Rise of Hitler
• Life in Nazi Germany
• Life in Germany during the Second World War.

II.                   Paper 2: British History

• The events that led Britain to war in 1918
• The Liberal government’s response to poverty
• The Suffragists and Suffragettes
• World War One propaganda

Our Coursework option is worth 25% and centres on the Jazz Age in the USA and the booming 1920’s. We study

·        The ‘Gangster Era’ and prohibition (banning of alcohol)

·        The effects of the Great Depression and Roosevelt’s New Deal.

Why should you do History?

You enjoy studying about the past

It complements all other subjects in some way.

It builds on your knowledge acquired in Year 9

It is greatly valued by employers because it shows an enquiring mind

It is essential if you want to study Law or any linked profession.

There will be the opportunity to either visit the World War I battlefields, Berlin, Imperial War Museum or to experience GCSE exam technique days.