After enjoying History at GCSE, I was really excited to broaden my knowledge by choosing it as an A Level. This has since proven to be an invaluable decision in more ways than I could have hoped for. The Revolutions and Rebellion course allowed me to study a wide range of topics, opening my eyes to a diverse study of politics, economics, social activism and international relations, within the context of crucial moments throughout time. From learning about Napoleon’s skilful rise to power during the French Revolution, to Churchill’s poignant speeches during the turbulence of WWII, I have loved this course as there is something for everyone.
Personally, the Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992 topic has been my favourite as it enabled me to explore pivotal moments such as Martin Luther King’s march on Washington in 1963, however through different perspectives. As someone who had never studied American History before, learning about African American, Native American, Women’s and Worker’s Rights, has helped me secure a strong understanding of their position within the US which is still extremely relevant today. I have also really loved the Churchill and British Domestic Politics side of the course as I have been able to compare American politics to British politics whilst learning about key influential figures which my grandparents and even parents still remember. The teachers in the department are really supportive and known amongst students as being pro-active, engaging and extremely well-versed in their subject, which has certainly been my experience.
As a Music and English Literature student, History could not have supplied a better foundation for my other A Levels. The transferable skills of critical thinking, organisation, and essay writing are useful, and in many cases the course has directly linked to my other subjects. For example, A Streetcar Named Desire is set in 1940s post-war America, and Rousseau’s enlightenment ideologies during the French Revolution are a thorough theme in Shelley’s Frankenstein. In September, I am planning on studying a joint degree of History and Music at Royal Holloway and this course has definitely inspired me to continue studying history.
Courses
English Literature A Level
History: Revolutions & Rebellion A Level
+Enrichment
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Music Small Ensemble
What’s Next?
Royal Holloway University: History and Music