GCSE and A Level History Audio Study Guides

The Cold War

The Cold War is an extremely exciting period of history, with two superpowers in a standoff. Our Cold War series not only brings alive the real tension of this period but will also cover everything you need to know for your coursework, essays and GCSE. The course is split into 3 key areas; the origins of the Cold War and the arguments about who was to blame; the Cuban Missile Crisis and who was considered the winner; the conflict in Vietnam 1954-75 with the focus of why the USA failed. We also offer exam guidance on exam preparation at the conclusion of the series.

The Inter War Years

The Inter War Years are a fascinating period of history, swinging from "never again" to the start of another World War. Our Inter War Years GCSE podcast series not only brings this alive but also sets out everything you will need to know for both your coursework and your exams. Starting from the end of World War 1 it examines the Peace Treaties and how fair they were, whether or not the League of Nations was successful and why international peace had collapsed by 1939. Each podcast will help address these questions and give you enough detail to help prepare for your exams and keep on top of your coursework.

Causes and Events of the First World War 1890−1918

The Causes and Events of the First World War is a fascinating period to study, with many complexities leading up to the war and then the actual war itself. This series combines the expertise of James Sladden, a history teacher of many years with Dr William Butler, a specialist in World War 1. The series will give you an in-depth understanding of the subject, additional insights from an academic perspective and help you to prepare for your GCSE examination.

Medicine Through Time

When did you last visit the doctor or dentist? Imagine the last illness or accident you had (hopefully not too serious a one!). Did you see someone quickly? Did they give you a diagnosis and treatment? Did they make you better? Now, imagine having no access to a doctor or dentist. Imagine no effective drugs or treatments. Imagine operations or tooth extractions with no anaesthetic. Imagine having no understanding of why you are Ill or if you'll get better. You'll have some insight into the lives of those who lived in this country a 1000, a hundred or even fifty years ago.

Germany 1919-1945 OCR GCSE

The significance of what occurred in Germany during our period of study needs no exaggeration. They say history repeats itself but we must hope that this period provides lessons which the world does not forget. Our OCR GCSE series on Germany 1919-1945 examines all the main themes: The establishment of the Weimar Republic, the problems faced by the Weimar Republic from 1919-1923, its recovery from those problems and finally, the Third Reich.

The USA 1919−1941

Even though the USA had entered WW1 and had subsequently involved itself in the affairs of post war Europe, American influence across the world really started to be felt for the first time during our period of study. The 'roaring twenties' conjure up images of wealth, parties, music, gangsters, cars and an emerging Hollywood. The cultural influence of the US was starting to spread. They say that if America sneezes the rest of the world catches a cold. No kidding! The 1930's Wall Street crash and subsequent depression reverberated around the world and still does. Our series has been written by Briton, Dr David Perkins, and American historian, Jakub Gaweda.

The Norman Conquest 1066-1087

Living under Nazi rule 1933-1945

How does that sound? Pretty alarming? Well lets find out.

The Elizabethans 1580-1603

Welcome to our series for the OCR GCSE specification on Elizabethan England. Elizabeth is viewed as one of our greatest monarchs. She committed herself to her country, even ruling out marriage in favour of her subjects. But was this really a golden age? How did the country react to Elizabeth? Was she even wanted? This was a period of religious turmoil and would be a thorny issue throughout her reign. There were other issues too - revolts and rebellion at home and threats from abroad, especially the mighty Spanish. It was also a period when the English started to expand their horizons both at home and abroad. And what was life like at home under Elizabeth? There was plenty of change and, as is usual, winners and losers. Our series brings together Oxford historian and Tudor specialist, Dr Glyn Redworth, and Dr Jenni Hyde, Associate Vice President of the Historical Association

Russia 1928-1964 The People and the State

This period study focuses on the development of Russia during a turbulent half century of change. It was a period of autocracy and communism – the fall of the Tsardom and the rise and consolidation of communism. Students will study the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of these two developments and the role ideas played in influencing change. They will also look at the role of key individuals and groups in shaping change and the impact the developments had on them. Entertainingly written by George Harrison and skilfully supported by Dr Mark Hurst.