The impact of War, 1939–1945 (A-level only) study guide

Study Guide: The Impact of War, 1939–1945

This study guide provides an outline of essential themes and events to focus on when preparing for your A-Level History exam.

Key Themes

1. Rationing and Morale

• Explore how rationing affected different social classes and the overall morale of the population.
• Analyze the role of propaganda in shaping public perception and maintaining support for the war.

1. Wartime Economy

• Understand the economic strategies employed by the Nazi regime, including the role of Albert Speer.
• Assess the impact of bombing campaigns on German industry and civilian life.

1. The Holocaust

• Investigate the policies towards Jews and other marginalized groups during the war.
• Examine the significance of the Wannsee Conference in the context of the 'Final Solution'.

1. Opposition and Resistance

• Identify key figures and groups involved in resistance against the Nazi regime.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of these resistance efforts and their impact on the Nazi state.

Study Tips

• Create timelines of key events to visualize the progression of the war and its impacts.
• Engage with primary sources to gain insights into the experiences of different societal groups during the war.
• Discuss themes with peers to deepen understanding and retention of material.