OVERVIEW
This unit covers the causes of, and course of the Second World War with a focus on the European theatre. Students need to have a clear understanding of the the aggressive nature of Nazi foreign policy in the period between 1936-1939. This information must then be placed in the context of re-emerging tensions in Europe and the failures of the League of Nations in dealing with the aggression of not only German foreign policy, but that of the Italians.
Beyond the politics, students must understand the nature of warfare in this period, particularly in terms of technological innovation and its impact in the different European theatres. An understanding of the impact of World War II on the homefronts of Britain and Germany OR the Soviet Union is also a requirement. In the HSC examination, students must answer ONE 25 mark question in the form of a historical essay. Students will be given the choice of two questions. Generally this will include one question that focuses on the politics of WWII (ie. the period that preceeded the war itself); and one that focuses on the course of the war itself or its impact on civilian populations. However, it is important to have an understanding of the unit as a whole to ensure that you are fully prepared for any question that is put forward. |
QUESTION A
Evaluate the view that the dictators Hitler and Mussolini were primarily responsible for the tensions that led to the outbreak of war in Europe in 1939.
QUESTION B
To what extent was the Soviet Union (Russia) responsible for the Allied victory in the conflict in Europe?
Sample Responses
QUESTION A
SAMPLE (Band 6) |
Click the link to the left in order to view the Essay Scaffold in Google Docs. Make a copy of the file and work through the scaffold to develop your skills in written responses.
You can share your completed response with me by adding me to the file - [email protected]
You can share your completed response with me by adding me to the file - [email protected]
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
QUESTION 2
Why was Germany so successful in the European War up to the start of Operation Barbarossa?
QUESTION 3
How significant was the war in the air in shaping the course of the European war?
QUESTION 4
Assess the role of the 1944 Russian counter-offensives in bringing about the endof the conflict in Europe.
QUESTION 5
To what extent did the aims and strategies of the Axis powers shape the course of the European War?
QUESTION 6
Assess the effectiveness of the League of Nations to the maintenance of peace in Europe to 1939.
QUESTION 7
Evaluate the significance of ‘D’ Day and the liberation of France in bringing about the end of the conflict in Europe by 1945.