Topic outline

  • America: A nation divided

    Union and Confederate flags

    In this component of the course you will study the causes of the Civil War, the war itself, and the period after the war known as Reconstruction.


    • DigitalHistory URL

      This web site is a great introduction to the America: A nation divided component of the course.

      The most relevant sections are Pre-Civil War era, Slavery, Civil War and Reconstruction (the former two relate to the first year of the course). Any of the material in these sections will be useful. 

      Those who have studied the American West at GCSE will find some cross-over here, although our course does not really involve the plight of Native Americans. 


    • Civil War battlefields URL

      If you're keen to find out about the American Civil War itself (which is studied in the second year), this web site is fascinating, visual and interactive.

    • American Civil War in 10 minutes

      Find out what the Civil War was all about by watching this video. Keep up!

       

       

  • Tudor England

    Henry VIII Bible frontispiece


    In this component you will study the whole of the Tudor period. The first year of the course covers Henry VII and Henry VIII - so watch your head!

    • Course textbook


      You will be provided with course materials for each topic, but a textbook is recommended in addition. Several are available for our course, but former students have recommended this one:


      Tudor textbook


    • The Wars of the Roses

      Did you know that 'Game of Thrones' was based to a large extent on the period of English history called the Wars of the Roses? This period came immediately before the first Tudor king, Henry VII, so knowing a bit about it is essential for understanding who the Tudors were and where they came from.

      This video explains some parallels between the Wars of the Roses and Game of Thrones, but it also explains really well how Henry Tudor (who became Henry VII) won the throne. You can ignore the GoT references, if you like.