History A Level (Modern & Russia)

What will I study? A Level History is an engaging subject that will build your understanding of the world around you and equip you with skills that are highly prized by both universities and employers. You will evaluate sources and opinions and construct arguments and judgements, as well as building literacy and debating skills.

This is one of two versions of A Level History that we offer (the other includes Tudor England and the American Civil War). You can do either of these alongside Ancient History.

Unit 1H: Tsarist and Communist Russia 1855-1964 This is a breadth study, in which you will look at the themes of political authority, opposition, the development of the economy, social and cultural change, the importance of ideas and ideologies such as communism, and the importance of key individuals and groups. Russia goes through enormous change in this period, moving from an economically backwards nation that had been defeated in the Crimean War to an industrial superpower; from a traditional autocratic country to the world’s first communist state. There is also some continuity, with Stalin often referred to as the Red Tsar, and the Russian people being subject to brutal regimes.

Unit 2S: The Making of Modern Britain 1951-2007 In this unit, you will study the development of Britain from the aftermath of World War II up until the modern day. In this time period, Britain’s position in the world changes dramatically as the age of Empire ends. The nation goes through economic upheaval, enormous social change, sees several shifts in political ideology and emerges as the country that you know. This unit will give you a deep understanding of the modern world and Britain’s place in it, as well as introducing you to key figures including Churchill, Thatcher and Blair.

Unit 3: Tudor Rebellions 1485-1603 In your coursework, you will examine the causes of rebellions against the five Tudor monarchs. Beginning with Henry VII’s struggles against Yorkist pretenders, you will also examine the Pilgrimage of Grace, a rebellion against Henry VIII’s religious changes, and the two rebellions faced by Edward VI in 1549. The coursework also focuses on rebels trying to prevent Mary I’s marriage to Philip of Spain, and Catholic plots and rebellions against Elizabeth I.