History

This subject explores the significance of key events and individuals on the way our world has been shaped. The course focuses on three periods of history which all see revolutionary transformations in politics, economy and society. The course has examined units on Britain (the three kingdoms) in revolution in the seventeenth century and China in revolution in the 20^th century. There is also a coursework unit, in the second year, which will require you to investigate historical interpretations and debate within a thematic extended essay, with source analysis. The coursework topic focuses on the transformation of Russia from Tsarism to Stalinism in the years 1855 to 1964.

What skills will I develop?

You will develop the skills to advance complex arguments, based on your knowledge of 19th and 20th Century USA (1865-1975), 17th Century Britain (1625-1660) and modern Russia (1855-1964). 

In order to achieve this, you will gain high-level research and note-making skills, as well as the ability to defend your views via oral argument. 

With regard to the coursework component, you will develop independent learning skills, as you research into your own unique areas of the syllabus. 

What topics will I study?

Component 1 – Examination:

Breadth Study Paper 1K The Making of a Superpower, USA 1865-1975 (2 hours, 30 minutes – 40%)

This exciting period in US history begins attempts at Reconstruction following a bloody and destructive Civil War. Late 19th century America is a country of rapid change and economic development, with large-scale European immigration transforming cities like New York and railroads opening up the West to create the highest standard of living anywhere in the world by WW1.  You’ll trace the development of this superpower right through the Jazz age of the 1920s, the depression of the 1930s, the economic miracle of the 1950s, the social strife in the 1960s and the scandal and confusion of the Watergate era. 

Component 2 – Examination:

Depth Study Paper 2E The English Revolution, 1625-1660 (2 hours, 30 minutes – 40%) 

When and why did the people of England overthrow the English monarchy and replace it with a republican system of government? Why didn’t it last and what was its legacy? This part of the course deals with the most misunderstood part of English history: the reign of Charles I, the civil wars of the 1640s and the attempt to create a political settlement without a monarch. You will examine the religious and political arguments of the time and attempt to understand the minds and motives of the people of the 17th Century.

Component 3 – Non-Exam Assessment: 

Historical Investigation focused on the transformation of Russia, 1855-1964 (4,500 words – 20%) 

Students can progress from this qualification to a wide variety of university courses, including history, politics, law, economics, philosophy, social policy, international studies and accountancy. The course develops analytical skills which are an ideal preparation for many careers, including those in TV, radio, journalism, the civil service, local government, management, finance, accountancy, the police, librarianship, marketing, law, social work, and teaching.  

Where does the course lead?

History can prepare you for a wide range of careers including TV, radio, journalism, Civil Service, librarianship, marketing, law, social work, and teaching. The subject is also useful for a wide range of degree courses including Law, Psychology and English.