Britain 1900–1951

Britain 1900–1951 covers a transformative period in British history, from the height of the Edwardian era through two world wars and the establishment of the welfare state. This module examines political, social, economic, and cultural changes, focusing on how Britain evolved from a liberal, imperial power to a modern democracy with a mixed economy and a more egalitarian society. Key themes include the decline of the Liberal Party and the rise of Labour, the impact of total war on state and society, the extension of the franchise, and the creation of the National Health Service. Understanding this period is crucial for grasping the foundations of contemporary Britain.

The period is divided into distinct phases: the pre-war years (1900–1914) marked by social reform and constitutional crises; the First World War (1914–1918) which transformed the role of government and society; the interwar years (1918–1939) characterised by economic depression, political realignment, and social change; and the Second World War and its aftermath (1939–1951) which saw the emergence of the welfare state and the end of empire. Students must analyse how these events shaped modern British identity and institutions, and evaluate the extent of continuity and change across the period.

This topic is central to the OCR A-Level History specification because it develops skills in source analysis, evaluation of interpretations, and essay writing. It connects to broader themes of democracy, war, and social reform, and provides a case study in how historical forces interact. Mastery of this period requires understanding both narrative chronology and thematic analysis, as well as engaging with historiographical debates about the nature of British decline and the impact of war on society.