Modern History

MODERN HISTORY

2 UNIT MODERN HISTORY

The study of Modern History engages students in an investigation of the forces that have shaped the world, based on the analysis and interpretation of sources. It offers students the opportunity to investigate the possible motivations and actions of individuals and groups, and how they have shaped the world politically, culturally, economically, and socially. Modern History stimulates students’ curiosity and imagination and enriches their appreciation of humanity byintroducing them to a range of historical developments and experiences that have defined the modern world.

Students will develop skills in critical thinking, empathy, interpreting and analysing evidence. As part of our studies, we consider that God is active and sovereign in history. Students are affirmed that their future is in His loving hands.

Topics Covered Course Topic

The Age of Imperialism / The Making of Modern South Africa

Preliminary

HSC The Decline and Fall of the Romanov Dynasty

Historical Investigation

The First World War / First World War Archaeology

Power and Authority in the Modern World: 1919-1946

Russia and the Soviet Union:19171941

The Cold War 1945-1991

Apartheid in South Africa 19601994

Description

In this unit, students will learn about the eruption of imperialist conquest that took place throughout the worldat the end of the 19th century. This will be consolidated with a case study on the making of South Africa from the Zulu Wars to unification in 1910.

Students will learn about the Russian Tsars and howNicholas II contributed to the collapse of the Russianregime, paving the way for Communism.

This is a self-directed research essay on any modernhistorical topic the student desires.

This unit will take students through an intensive study of the First World War. Special attention will be given to the practices of archaeologists working on the First World War.

Students will be given a unique opportunity to study the rise of dictatorships throughout the world after the First World War. The unit will focus on Nazi Germany as its casestudy.

Leninist and Stalinist Russia are one of the most engaging parts of Modern History. Students will learn about the rise of both dictators and the ways they established and maintained the Soviet Union.

Students will study the ebbs and flows of the Cold War from the end of the Second World War through to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

This unit will enable students to explore and understand the Apartheid system that was instituted throughout SouthAfrica for the second half of the 20th century.

See page 35 for History Extension which can be studied in Year 12 only.