British Political History (L2010E)

15 credits, Level 4

Autumn teaching

On this module, you’ll explore the key questions, concepts, and controversies in modern British political history, with a focus on the period since 1945. You’ll examine the historical context in which our politics takes place and how interpretations of the past shape political identities, divisions, and alliances in the present.

Key topics include:

  • the powerful myths and memories that have influenced British politics
  • how the political nation is defined, including which voices are heard and which are excluded, and how this has evolved over time

You’ll study these subjects not only through academic analysis but also in the context of ongoing political debates. Throughout the module, you’ll trace the impact of these historical interpretations on later political discussions and examine how politicians have shaped their own versions of British political history.

Teaching

50%: Lecture
50%: Seminar

Assessment

30%: Coursework (Project)
70%: Written assessment (Essay)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.