Britain Flashcards
1
Q
What is Britains current net migration? (2002)
How does it compare to pre-Brexit referendum levels?
A
606,000
More than double pre-Brexit levels
https://www.economist.com/britain/2023/05/25/migration-to-britain-hits-a-record-high
2
Q
Give 3 reasons for step-change in recent net migration to Britain?
A
- Students returning after Covid
- Threats to life and liberty abroad (Ukraine, Hong-Kong, assylum seekers in boats)
- Points-based workplace visa in health-care and social-care
https://www.economist.com/britain/2023/05/25/migration-to-britain-hits-a-record-high
3
Q
Who was the British monarch at the start of the 20th century?
A
Queen Victoria
4
Q
What was the significance of the Battle of Britain in World War II (1940)?
A
- First major campaign fought entirely by air forces
- Crucial in preventing a German invasion of Britain
5
Q
What was the main purpose of the National Health Service (NHS), established in 1948?
A
To provide healthcare free at the point of use
6
Q
When did the United Kingdom join the European Economic Community, the precursor to the EU?
A
1973
7
Q
What was the significance of the Suez Crisis of 1956?
A
Marked the end of Britain’s role as a global power
…
During the crisis, the United States, under President Eisenhower, opposed Britain’s military action and put significant economic pressure on Britain, including threats of sanctions and denial of financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund. This pressure led to a rapid withdrawal of British troops and a ceasefire, mediated by the United Nations.
8
Q
Who was the first female Prime Minister of the UK, and in what years was she in office?
A
Margaret Thatcher
in office 1979-90
9
Q
When was John Major in office?
A
1990-97
10
Q
When was Tony Blair in office?
A
1997-2007
11
Q
When did Gordon Brown serve as PM?
A
2007-10
12
Q
What was the Good Friday Agreement of 1998?
Give 3 details
A
- End of Conflict: Ended “The Troubles” by establishing peace
- and a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland.
- Status of Northern Ireland: Affirmed Northern Ireland’s status as part of the UK until a majority in both North and South vote for change.
- Rights and Identities: Recognized the rights of people to identify as Irish, British, or both, and laid the groundwork for future referendums.
13
Q
When did the United Kingdom host the Summer Olympics for the third time, and in which city?
A
London, 2012
14
Q
What were the main reasons for Brexit?
Give 5 points
A
- Sovereignty: Desire for increased national control over laws and regulations.
- Immigration: Aim to restrict EU free movement and control immigration more tightly.
- Economic Independence: Belief in potential economic benefits from establishing independent trade deals and escaping perceived EU red tape.
- Political Disillusionment: Frustration with perceived EU bureaucracy and detachment from UK interests.
- National Identity: Desire to strengthen and maintain UK’s national identity and independence.
15
Q
What was the main outcome of the 1945 UK general election?
A
Labour, Clement Attlee landslide win
16
Q
Who succeeded Queen Victoria and when?
A
Edward VII, 1901
17
Q
Name the key British invention in the 1930s that significantly impacted WWII.
A
radar
18
Q
What economic policy did Prime Minister Thatcher famously implement in the 1980s?
A
Neoliberalism, including privatization and deregulation
19
Q
When did the UK transfer the sovereignty of Hong Kong back to China, and what was the agreement?
A
1997, under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle
….
The “One Country, Two Systems” principle, established in 1997, allows Hong Kong and Macau to maintain their own capitalist economic and legal systems distinct from mainland China’s socialist system, while being part of the People’s Republic of China, ensuring a high degree of autonomy for 50 years post-handover.
20
Q
What major constitutional change occurred in the UK in 1999?
A
Establishment of devolved parliaments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
….
In 1999, the UK underwent a significant constitutional change with the establishment of devolved parliaments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, granting these regions their own legislative bodies and autonomy over various local matters like education and health, while the UK Parliament retained control over national issues.
21
Q
What was the Beveridge Report of 1942, and why was it significant?
A
Proposed widespread reforms to establish a welfare state
…
The Beveridge Report of 1942 was a groundbreaking document that proposed comprehensive social welfare reforms in the UK, including the creation of a welfare state with social security, health care, and education services, aimed at addressing the fundamental social issues of want, disease, ignorance, squalor, and idleness. Its recommendations laid the foundation for the modern British welfare system, including the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS).
22
Q
Which Prime Minister set up the NHS and in which year?
A
The National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom was established by the Labour government under Prime Minister Clement Attlee in 1948
23
Q
When and why did India gain independence from British rule?
A
1947, due to a strong independence movement and post-WWII pressures
24
Q
Name the British scientific discovery in 1953 that had a significant impact on biology.
A
Structure of DNA by Watson and Crick
…
In 1953, British scientists James Watson and Francis Crick, working at the University of Cambridge, made a groundbreaking discovery by revealing the double helix structure of DNA. This pivotal finding revolutionized the field of biology, providing the foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of heredity, genetic variation, and numerous biological processes.
25
What was the main effect of the "Windrush Generation" on British society?
Post-WWII Caribbean immigration that influenced multiculturalism
1948-73
...
The "Windrush Generation" represents the Caribbean immigrants who moved to the UK after World War II, primarily motivated by the demand for labor in rebuilding post-war Britain. Their arrival marked a significant shift towards a more diverse and multicultural British society, as they were actively encouraged to migrate to address labor shortages and contributed significantly to various sectors of British life.
26
What was Operation Banner, lasting from 1969 to 2007?
British Army's operation in Northern Ireland during The Troubles
27
Who was the British Prime Minister at the start of World War I?
H. H. Asquith... He led the UK from 1908 to 1916, guiding the country through the initial years of WWI.
28
Name the Prime Minister who succeeded Winston Churchill after WWII.
Clement Attlee... His government (1945-1951) founded the NHS and nationalized major industries.
29
Who was the British Prime Minister during the Suez Crisis?
Anthony Eden... His term (1955-1957) was overshadowed by the Suez Crisis, a major diplomatic failure.
30
Who was Prime Minister during the 2008 financial crisis?
Gordon Brown... His term from 2007 to 2010 was marked by efforts to manage the global financial crisis.
31
Name the Prime Minister who initiated the Brexit referendum.
David Cameron... During his tenure (2010-2016), he called the referendum leading to Brexit.
32
Who was the Prime Minister at the turn of the millennium (2000)?
Tony Blair... In office from 1997 to 2007, known for his "New Labour" approach and involvement in the Iraq War.
33
What were the key economic policies of John Major's government?
Privatization, free market policies... He also signed the Maastricht Treaty, deepening UK's integration into the EU.
34
What was the main economic challenge during James Callaghan’s Premiership?
Winter of Discontent... His term (1976-1979) saw severe economic troubles and widespread strikes.
35
Which Prime Minister led Britain into the First Gulf War?
John Major... He oversaw the UK's involvement in the Gulf War during his term from 1990 to 1997.
36
Who succeeded Theresa May as Prime Minister?
Boris Johnson... Taking office in 2019 (to 2022), he is known for overseeing the Brexit process.
37
What was the economic impact of the "Winter of Discontent" in 1978-79?
Severe public sector strikes... This period was characterized by significant labor unrest and economic challenges.
38
What were the economic consequences of WWII for Britain?
Massive debt, end of the British Empire... The war led to economic austerity and marked the decline of Britain as a global power.
39
How did the 1973 oil crisis affect the UK economy?
Stagflation... It caused a period of high inflation and stagnant economic growth.
40
How did the Blair government's economic policies differ from its predecessors?
Continued neoliberal policies, increased public spending... Blair's government focused on modernizing public services while maintaining market-friendly policies.
41
What major economic change occurred under Edward Heath's government in the early 1970s?
Joining the European Economic Community (EEC)... This was a significant step towards economic integration with Europe.
42
How did the UK economy change under the Cameron-Clegg coalition government?
Austerity measures... The coalition government focused on reducing the national deficit in response to the financial crisis.
43
What economic challenges faced the UK during Neville Chamberlain’s Premiership?
Recovery from the Great Depression, war spending... Chamberlain's term saw economic recovery efforts and the onset of WWII spending.
44
Who succeeded Queen Victoria?
King Edward VII... His reign from 1901 to 1910 is known as the Edwardian Era, a period of significant social change.
45
Who became monarch after Edward VII and how was his reign significant?
King George V... He reigned during WWI and oversaw the change of the royal family's name to Windsor in 1917.
1910-36
46
Which king abdicated, leading to his brother's ascension?
Edward VIII... He abdicated in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, making George VI king.
47
What was notable about King George VI’s reign?
He led the country through WWII... His reign (1936-1952) was marked by his leadership during the war and his efforts to modernize the monarchy.
48
What was the impact of the 1992 "Annus Horribilis" on the monarchy?
Public relations crisis... It was a year marked by several royal scandals and personal tragedies. Three of her children separated from their spouses; the family was plagued by scandal in the tabloids; and her beloved childhood home caught fire. The scandals and mishaps shattered the royal myth.
49
What major change did the monarchy undergo in terms of succession laws?
Succession to the Crown Act 2013... It ended male-preference primogeniture, allowing the first-born child, regardless of gender, to be the heir.
50
What role does the monarchy play in the UK’s political system?
Ceremonial and symbolic... The monarch has limited political power and acts on the advice of the Prime Minister.
51
What is the significance of the Commonwealth Realms in relation to the monarchy?
Queen as head of state in 16 countries... These nations recognize the British monarch as their ceremonial head of state.
52
When was Queen Elizabeth's reign?
1952-2022
Until her death aged 96
53
What is the significance of the Magna Carta in British history?
Answer: Foundation of constitutional monarchy and rule of law in 1215.
Elaboration: The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, is a cornerstone of British constitutional and legal tradition, establishing the principle that everyone, including the king, is subject to the law and affirming the rights of individuals.
54
Who was the British Prime Minister during the Falklands War?
Answer: Margaret Thatcher in 1982.
Elaboration: Margaret Thatcher's leadership during the Falklands War, where Britain successfully reclaimed the Falkland Islands from Argentine occupation, significantly boosted her popularity and reinforced her image as a strong leader.
55
What is the historical importance of the Chartist Movement?
Answer: Advocated for voting rights and parliamentary reform in the 19th century.
Elaboration: The Chartist Movement, active in the mid-19th century, was crucial in the fight for democratic reforms in Britain, particularly in advocating for universal male suffrage and the secret ballot.
56
When was the Battle of Hastings and why is it significant?
Answer: 1066, marking the beginning of Norman rule in England.
Elaboration: The Battle of Hastings in 1066, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II, was a turning point in English history. It led to significant cultural and political changes under Norman rule.
57
What was the role of Britain in the transatlantic slave trade?
Answer: Major participant until the abolition in the early 19th century.
Elaboration: Britain played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade, transporting millions of enslaved Africans to the Americas, until the Slave Trade Act of 1807 and the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833.
58
What was the purpose of the British East India Company?
Answer: To pursue trade in the Indian Ocean region, eventually leading to British colonial rule in India.
Elaboration: The British East India Company, established in 1600, played a crucial role in expanding British trade in Asia, particularly in India, and was instrumental in the establishment of British colonial rule there.
59
How did the Industrial Revolution start in Britain?
Answer: Innovations in manufacturing and transportation in the late 18th century.
Elaboration: The Industrial Revolution began in Britain due to advances in technologies like the steam engine, leading to massive changes in industry, transportation, and society.
60
What was the purpose of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) when it was founded?
Answer: To provide impartial public service broadcasting in the UK.
Elaboration: Established in 1922, the BBC was created to offer a range of radio services and later television, with a focus on providing unbiased and diverse programming.
61
What was the impact of the Great Fire of London in 1666?
Answer: Led to the rebuilding and modernization of central London.
Elaboration: The Great Fire of London destroyed much of the medieval city, leading to widespread rebuilding with new urban designs and fire safety regulations.
62
What is the significance of the Stonehenge monument?
Answer: Prehistoric monument of unknown purpose, symbolizing ancient Britain.
Elaboration: Stonehenge, a mysterious structure built between 3000 BC to 2000 BC, is one of Britain's most famous landmarks, reflecting the sophisticated engineering skills of prehistoric peoples.
63
Who was Florence Nightingale and what was her contribution?
Answer: Founder of modern nursing, known for her work in the Crimean War.
Elaboration: Florence Nightingale's efforts during the Crimean War in improving unsanitary conditions drastically reduced death rates, and she later established nursing as a respectable profession for women.
64
What was the impact of the Black Death on medieval England?
Answer: Devastating epidemic that significantly reduced the population in the 14th century. By 50%
Elaboration: The Black Death, a bubonic plague, killed a large portion of England's population, leading to significant social and economic changes, including labor shortages and shifts in feudalism.
65
What is the historical significance of the English Civil War?
Answer: Conflict between monarchy and Parliament, leading to temporary abolition of monarchy.
Elaboration: The English Civil War (1642-1651) was a pivotal event that saw the execution of Charles I, the establishment of a Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell, and significant political upheaval.
66
What was the significance of the Act of Union 1707?
Answer: Unified England and Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain.
Elaboration: The Act of Union 1707 merged the governments of England and Scotland, creating a single British Parliament and marking a major step in the formation of the United Kingdom.
67
What was the significance of the Reform Act of 1832 in British politics?
Answer: Expanded the electorate and reformed parliamentary representation.
Elaboration: The Reform Act of 1832 was a major step in the process of democratization in Britain, addressing disparities in representation and giving a greater number of men the right to vote.
68
What was the impact of the Enclosure Acts in Britain?
Answer: Consolidated land, leading to agricultural modernization and rural depopulation.
Elaboration: The Enclosure Acts, spanning several centuries, transformed the rural landscape by ending traditional rights of common land usage, driving many to cities and contributing to the Industrial Revolution.
69
Who was the architect of the British welfare state?
Answer: William Beveridge, with his report laying the foundations.
Elaboration: William Beveridge's 1942 report proposed extensive social welfare measures, leading to the establishment of the NHS and modern social security systems.
70
What was the role of the British navy in the Napoleonic Wars?
Answer: Crucial in defeating Napoleon, particularly at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Elaboration: The Royal Navy played a decisive role in the Napoleonic Wars, with victories like Trafalgar in 1805 securing British naval dominance and contributing to Napoleon's eventual defeat.
71
What is the historical significance of the Boer Wars?
Answer: Conflicts over British imperialism in South Africa, impacting British military tactics.
Elaboration: The Boer Wars (1880-1881 and 1899-1902) highlighted the complexities of imperial policy and led to significant changes in British military strategy and tactics.
72
Who was Emmeline Pankhurst and what was her contribution?
Answer: Leader in the British suffragette movement, advocating for women's voting rights.
Elaboration: Emmeline Pankhurst's militant tactics and leadership were instrumental in the fight for women's suffrage in the UK, culminating in the Representation of the People Act 1918.
73
What was the significance of the Battle of Agincourt in 1415?
Answer: Key English victory in the Hundred Years' War, showcasing longbow effectiveness.
Elaboration: The Battle of Agincourt, where a numerically inferior English army defeated the French, is famed for the effective use of the longbow and is a celebrated moment in English military history.
74
How did the Glorious Revolution of 1688 affect the British monarchy?
Answer: Led to the constitutional monarchy with the Bill of Rights 1689.
Elaboration: The Glorious Revolution established parliamentary supremacy over the monarchy, laying the groundwork for modern British constitutionalism.
75
What is the historical significance of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815?
Answer: Decisive defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte, ending his rule and the Napoleonic Wars.
Elaboration: The Battle of Waterloo marked the final defeat of Napoleon and a turning point in European history, leading to a period of relative peace and the redrawing of national boundaries.
76
Who was David Lloyd George and what was his role during WWI?
Answer: British Prime Minister who played a key role in the Allied victory in WWI.
(Served 1916-22)
Elaboration: Lloyd George's leadership was crucial in mobilizing the nation for war, managing the economy, and contributing to the development of the post-war world order.
77
What was the Corn Laws controversy about?
Answer: Protectionist trade laws favoring domestic grain producers, leading to widespread debate and eventual repeal.
(1815 and 1846)
Elaboration: The Corn Laws, imposed in the early 19th century, were contentious for causing higher food prices and hardship for the poor, leading to significant political and social agitation.
78
Who was the architect responsible for rebuilding London after the Great Fire of 1666?
Answer: Sir Christopher Wren, known for designing St. Paul's Cathedral.
Elaboration: Wren's work in the aftermath of the fire shaped the architectural landscape of London, with his designs emphasizing the Baroque style.
79
What was the role of the Brontë sisters in English literature?
Answer: Pioneering female authors who significantly contributed to English literature with novels like 'Jane Eyre' and 'Wuthering Heights.'
* Charlotte (1816–1855), Emily (1818–1848) and Anne (1820–1849)
Elaboration: Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë, despite societal constraints, produced works of profound emotional depth and complexity, influencing the course of English literature.
80
What was the purpose of the Treaty of Utrecht (1713)?
Answer: Ended the War of Spanish Succession, reshaping European power balance.
Elaboration: The treaty marked the end of French expansionist policy, established the balance of power principle in Europe, and had lasting geopolitical effects.
81
How did the 'Pax Britannica' impact the 19th-century world?
Answer: Period of relative peace enforced by British naval supremacy, promoting trade and globalization.
Elaboration: The 'Pax Britannica' was marked by British dominance in global affairs, fostering international commerce and exchange under the protection of the Royal Navy.
82
What was the Opium Wars' impact on British-Chinese relations?
Answer: British victory led to treaty ports and Hong Kong cession, influencing modern Chinese-British interactions.
Elaboration: The Opium Wars in the mid-19th century, fought over trade disputes and opium trafficking, resulted in significant territorial and trade concessions from China to Britain, leaving a lasting impact on Chinese attitudes towards the West.
83
What was the purpose of the Cliveden Set?
Answer: Group of influential British elite in the 1930s, alleged to be sympathetic to German appeasement.
Elaboration: The Cliveden Set, centered around Nancy Astor and her social circle, was controversially associated with pro-German views and influenced British foreign policy debates before WWII.
84
How did the 'Special Relationship' between the UK and USA originate?
Answer: Term coined by Winston Churchill post-WWII, signifying close political, cultural, and military cooperation.
Elaboration: The 'Special Relationship' has been a cornerstone of British foreign policy, influencing diplomatic and military decisions, including shared intelligence and nuclear cooperation.
85
What was the historical significance of the Roundheads and Cavaliers in the English Civil War?
Answer: Represented the factions in the Civil War: Parliamentarians (Roundheads) and Royalists (Cavaliers).
Elaboration: The conflict between Roundheads and Cavaliers in the mid-17th century was rooted in political and religious differences, with profound effects on British governance and society.
86
Who was J.M.W. Turner and why is he important in art history?
Answer: Renowned British painter known for his expressive landscapes and seascapes, precursor to Impressionism.
Elaboration: J.M.W. Turner's innovative use of light and color influenced the development of Impressionism, and his works remain influential in the world of art.
87
What was the impact of the Irish Potato Famine on British-Irish relations?
Answer: Aggravated tensions due to inadequate British response, leading to increased Irish nationalism.
Elaboration: The Great Famine (1845-1849) had a profound impact on Ireland, causing widespread starvation and emigration, and intensified anti-British sentiment due to perceived neglect and exploitation.
88
Who was Richard the Lionheart and what was his role in the Crusades?
Answer: English king known for his leadership in the Third Crusade against Saladin.
(ruled England 1189-99)
Elaboration: Richard I's involvement in the Crusades was emblematic of European efforts to control the Holy Land, and his military prowess earned him a legendary status.
89
What was the significance of the 1918 Representation of the People Act?
Answer: Extended voting rights to women over 30 and more men, a milestone in the British suffrage movement.
Elaboration: This Act was a major breakthrough in the fight for women's suffrage, although full equal voting rights were not achieved until 1928.
90
What was the impact of the 'Anglo-Irish Treaty' of 1921?
Answer: Established the Irish Free State, ending the Irish War of Independence but leading to the Irish Civil War.
Elaboration: The treaty was a compromise that created a self-governing Irish entity but kept Northern Ireland within the UK, leading to political divisions and conflict in Ireland.
Irish civil war 22-23
91
Who was Guy Fawkes and what was the Gunpowder Plot?
Answer: Attempted to blow up the House of Lords in 1605 to restore a Catholic monarch, commemorated as Guy Fawkes Night. November 05.
Religious Tensions: The Gunpowder Plot was rooted in religious tensions in England during the early 17th century. Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators were Catholic extremists who plotted to assassinate the Protestant King James I and replace him with a Catholic monarch. These religious divisions persisted and contributed to the broader political and social conflicts that eventually led to the British Civil War.
92
What was the role of Queen Elizabeth I in the Elizabethan Era?
Answer: Her reign saw a flourishing of English culture, the defeat of the Spanish Armada, and the beginning of British colonial expansion.
(ruled 1558-1603)
Elaboration: Elizabeth I's rule is often considered a golden age in English history, characterized by relative internal peace, cultural achievements, and the rise of England as a major European power.
93
What was the significance of the British Raj in India?
Answer: Period of British colonial rule in India, profoundly influencing the cultural, political, and social landscape of both nations.
Elaboration: The British Raj (1858-1947) shaped modern India, including its administrative and legal systems, but also sparked nationalist movements leading to India's independence.
94
Who was Robert Peel and what were his contributions to British society?
Answer: Prime Minister who founded the Metropolitan Police and repealed the Corn Laws.
(in 1846)
Elaboration: Sir Robert Peel's establishment of the police force and economic reforms had a lasting impact on British society and policy.
95
What was the significance of the Charge of the Light Brigade?
Answer: Famous but ill-fated cavalry charge during the Crimean War, symbolizing both bravery and military mismanagement.
Elaboration: The Charge of the Light Brigade in 1854 is remembered for its heroism in the face of a tactical error, immortalized in poetry and history. Poem written by Alfred Lord Tennyson
96
How did the 'Battle of Bannockburn' in 1314 affect Scottish independence?
Answer: Significant Scottish victory in the Wars of Scottish Independence against England.
Elaboration: The Battle of Bannockburn, under Robert the Bruce's leadership, was a decisive moment for Scottish nationalism and the struggle for independence from English rule.
97
What was the impact of the 'English Reformation' under Henry VIII?
Answer: Led to the break with the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England.
r. 1509-1547 CE
Elaboration: The Reformation, driven by Henry VIII's desire for an annulment, had profound religious, political, and cultural impacts, marking a significant shift in English and European history.
98
Who was Thomas Becket and what was his significance?
Answer: Archbishop of Canterbury, his murder in 1170 became a symbol of church-state conflict.
Elaboration: Thomas Becket's martyrdom, following conflicts with King Henry II over church rights and privileges, had a lasting impact on the relationship between the church and the monarchy in England.
99
What were the Boer Wars and when did they occur?
Conflicts between the British Empire and Boer settlers... The First Boer War was from 1880-1881, and the Second from 1899-1902.
100
Who were the Boers in the Boer Wars?
Descendants of Dutch settlers in South Africa... The Boers fought against British imperial forces to maintain their independence.
101
What triggered the Second Boer War?
Tensions over British expansion and rights of foreign miners... Disputes over the rights in the gold-rich Transvaal region led to the war.
102
What significant military tactics were used in the Second Boer War?
Guerrilla warfare and concentration camps... The Boers used guerrilla tactics; the British responded with scorched earth policies and concentration camps.
103
What was the outcome and significance of the Boer Wars?
British victory and unification of South Africa... The wars led to British control over the Boer republics and later the formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910.
104
What were the Enclosure Acts in Britain?
Series of laws enabling land privatization in C18 and C19... These acts allowed for the conversion of common and shared land into privately owned parcels, mainly for agricultural use.
105
What was the primary goal of the Enclosure Acts?
Increase agricultural productivity... By consolidating land, the Acts aimed to improve efficiency and output in farming practices.
106
How did the Enclosure Acts affect small farmers and commoners?
Loss of land and livelihoods... Small farmers and commoners lost access to common lands, leading to economic hardship and displacement.
107
What was a major consequence of the Enclosure Acts on British society?
Acceleration of urbanization and industrialization... The displacement of rural populations contributed to the growth of cities and provided labor for the Industrial Revolution.
108
What was the Hundred Years' War and when did it take place?
A series of conflicts between England and France... It lasted from 1337 to 1453, spanning over a century with intermittent warfare.
109
What were the primary causes of the Hundred Years' War?
Territorial disputes and claims to the French throne... English monarchs claimed the French throne, leading to conflicts over territories in France.
110
What significant military innovations emerged during the Hundred Years' War?
Introduction of the longbow and changes in infantry tactics... The English longbowmen played a crucial role in several battles, signifying a shift in medieval warfare.
111
Name two major battles of the Hundred Years' War and their significance.
Battles of Crécy (1346) and Agincourt (1415)... These battles demonstrated the effectiveness of English archers and marked significant English victories.
112
What was the impact of the Hundred Years' War on England and France?
Political and social changes... It led to the strengthening of royal power in France and contributed to national identity, while in England, it exacerbated internal conflicts, leading to the Wars of the Roses.
113
Describe the feudal system
* Kings: Top of the hierarchy, owning all land.
* Nobles/Lords: Granted land by kings in exchange for loyalty and military support.
* Vassals/Knights: Given land by nobles for military service and protection.
* Peasants/Serfs: Worked the land for lords and knights, receiving protection and sustenance.
Note:
* Mutual Obligation: System based on reciprocal services - protection for service and loyalty.
* Decentralized Power: Lords had significant local authority and autonomy.
114
Who won the Hundred Years' War and when did it end?
France won... The war ended in 1453 with France regaining control of its territories, except for Calais.
115
What was a major turning point in the Hundred Years' War?
Joan of Arc's involvement... Her leadership in 1429 revitalized French fortunes and was key to their eventual victory.
116
What was the Wars of the Roses and when did it occur?
Series of civil wars in England... Fought between 1455 and 1485, primarily between the houses of Lancaster (red rose) and York (white rose).
117
What were the main causes of the Wars of the Roses?
Disputes over the English throne... Stemmed from competing claims by descendants of King Edward III, leading to rivalry between noble houses.
118
What was the outcome of the Wars of the Roses?
Rise of the Tudor dynasty... The war ended with Henry Tudor (Lancastrian claimant) defeating Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, leading to the establishment of the Tudor dynasty.
119
What is "Baroque" in the context of art and history?
A European artistic and architectural style... Baroque emerged in the late 16th century and is characterized by ornate detail, exuberance, grandeur, and a sense of movement and drama. It was prominent until the mid-18th century and is often associated with the Catholic Counter-Reformation.
120
What was the Glorious Revolution?
A bloodless coup in England in 1688... It resulted in the overthrow of King James II and the establishment of William III and Mary II as co-monarchs.
121
Why is the Glorious Revolution significant in English history?
Led to constitutional monarchy... The revolution marked the end of absolute monarchy in England and laid the groundwork for a constitutional monarchy, establishing parliamentary sovereignty.
122
What major political changes occurred as a result of the Glorious Revolution?
The Bill of Rights 1689... This act limited the powers of the monarchy, affirmed Parliament's authority, and laid the foundation for a modern democratic system in England.
123
What were the key outcomes of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth period?
Establishment of the Commonwealth and Protectorate... Following Charles I's execution in 1649, England became a republic under Oliver Cromwell, leading to the brief abolition of the monarchy.
1649-60
124
How did the Restoration in 1660 change England's political landscape?
Monarchy restoration with constitutional changes... The monarchy was restored with Charles II, leading to a new balance of power between the king and Parliament, setting the stage for future constitutional reforms.
125
Who was William of Orange and what was his role in the Glorious Revolution?
Dutch prince who became King of England... Invited by Parliament to overthrow James II due to religious and political conflicts, William's ascension in 1688 marked the establishment of a constitutional monarchy and the passage of the Bill of Rights 1689.
126
What was the Treaty of Utrecht and when was it signed?
A series of peace treaties... Signed in 1713, it ended the War of the Spanish Succession and redefined European power balance.
127
What was the primary conflict leading to the Treaty of Utrecht?
Succession to the Spanish throne... The war began over who should succeed Charles II of Spain, leading to broader European conflict.
1713
128
What were the key outcomes of the Treaty of Utrecht for Britain?
Territorial gains and naval dominance... Britain gained Gibraltar and Minorca, boosting its naval power and trade capabilities.
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How did the Treaty of Utrecht affect Spain and France?
Bourbon monarchy in Spain, separation from France... Philip V, a Bourbon, became King of Spain, but had to renounce his claim to the French throne to prevent a Franco-Spanish union.
130
What long-term impact did the Treaty of Utrecht have on Europe?
Establishment of a balance of power... The treaty marked the decline of French dominance in Europe and laid foundations for future international diplomacy.
131
What was the Irish Civil War about? and when was it?
* Cause: The Irish Civil War took place from 1922 to 1923 and was primarily caused by a disagreement over the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, which divided Irish republicans into pro-treaty and anti-treaty factions.
* Pro-Treaty vs. Anti-Treaty: The conflict pitted pro-treaty forces, led by Michael Collins and the Irish Free State government, against anti-treaty forces, led by Eamon de Valera and others who opposed the treaty's terms.
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What is the Easter Rising (Ireland)?
* Date: April 24 to April 29, 1916
* Leaders: Patrick Pearse, James Connolly, Thomas Clarke
* Objective: To establish an independent Irish republic and end British rule
* Location: Rebel forces occupied key sites in Dublin, including the General Post Office.
* Proclamation: The Proclamation of the Irish Republic was read, declaring independence.
* British Response: British forces suppressed the rebellion with military force.
* Surrender: Rebels surrendered on April 29, 1916.
* Executions: 16 rebel leaders, including Pearse and Connolly, were executed.
* Impact: Increased support for Irish independence and led to the Irish War of Independence.
* Legacy: A seminal event in Irish history, commemorated annually on Easter Sunday.
* Result: Contributed to the establishment of the Irish Free State (Republic of Ireland) in 1922 and the partition of Ireland.
