History GCSE
Public opinion and polarisation
What Public opinion and polarisation means in History GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Public opinion and polarisation
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Public opinion and polarisation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
The division of society during Lieutenant William Calley's trial, with anti-war activists seeing him as a scapegoat and pro-war supporters viewing him as a soldier unfairly punished.
Topics that use Public opinion and polarisation
- Option 33: Key topic 4: Reactions to, and the end of, US involvement in Vietnam, 1964–75 - 1 Opposition to the war (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
- Anti-war movement
- Credibility gap
- Draft system
- Media influence
- Military leadership and accountability
- Social polarisation
- Student movement
- Television war
Using Public opinion and polarisation in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
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