History
What is History?
History is narratives. From chaos comes order. History is the study of people, actions, decisions, interactions and behaviours. It is so compelling a subject because it encapsulates themes which expose the human condition in all of its guises and that resonate throughout time: power, weakness, corruption, tragedy, triumph … Nowhere are these themes clearer than in Political History, still the necessary core of the field and the most meaningful of the myriad approaches to the study of History.
What will I study?
Paper 1: Britain Transformed 1918-1997
This option comprises a study in breadth, in which students will learn about the extent to which Britain was transformed politically, socially, economically and culturally in the years 1918–79. They will consider responses to the challenges of war, fluctuations in the economy, technological advancement and the desire for greater social equality.
Paper 2: The USA challenge and conformity 1955-1992
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 right-wing groups in the 1980s and the development of bitter divisions between Democrats and Republicans.
Paper 3: The British experience of warfare 1790-1918
Together, the breadth and depth topics explore the British experience of war in different aspects of major overseas conflicts and the changing relationship between the state and the people as the government attempted to create an effective fighting machine and prepare the people for war. Within the primarily military focus on the experience of warfare, this option also gives students the opportunity to explore its political, social and economic dimensions and their part in generating pressure for change.
Coursework: The study of the Cold War
How will I be assessed?
External assessments take place at the end of Year 13 for Paper 1, 2 and 3 and the coursework to be assessed throughout the academic year
Who should study A Level History?
If you are intrigued by our past and want to learn how it will shape our future, you should consider studying History. History is a multifaceted discipline that will increase your cultural awareness and moral understanding of the world we live in.
By studying History you’ll gain a range of transferable skills, from informed citizenship and critical thinking, to research and general awareness. What’s more, the knowledge acquired through the study of History is relevant in a wide range of disciplines and can lead to diverse employment opportunities.