Britain in the Twentieth Century: From Imperial to Cultural Superpower

This course investigates the historical development of Britain throughout the twentieth century with particular emphasis on the ways in which society, culture, and politics have been shaped during this period. It considers aspects such as changing perceptions about the role of the State; the rise of consumer culture; the effect of two world wars; the development of the welfare state; the decline of empire; the impact of multiculturalism; the social and cultural innovations of the 1960s; and the impact of Thatcherism. The course addresses notions of personal and national identity within the changing context of 'Britishness", focusing on the ways in which the lives of ordinary British people have evolved during the last century. Classes are arranged both chronologically and thematically, combining lectures, seminars, film, presentations, and a wide variety of field studies.