Component 1: Tsarist and Communist Russia, 1855-1964 This course traces the development of modern Russia. The powers of the great Tsars of Russia like Alexander II and Nicholas II, the challenges to their authority and the rise of revolutionary groups culminating in the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 is the focus of the course in Year 12 and the end of year examination. In Year 13, the development of the Soviet Union after 1917 under Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev is traced. The way a relatively backward state in 1917 is propelled to being a global superpower is explored through the impact of two world wars as well as social, economic and political upheaval. Component 2: The Making of Modern Britain, 1951-2007 This course helps students get a really strong historical sense of the country they live in today. In Year 12, the results of the Second World War sets the context for Britain in the years from 1951 to 1979, a period of stability and prosperity that was to give way to strife and severe economic difficulties. The reputation of Churchill, Macmillan and Harold Wilson are assessed. In Year 13, the premierships of Margaret Thatcher, John Major and Tony Blair are put under the spotlight and throughout the period everything from Britain’s role on the world stage, to race riots and the development of modern social habits are examined. Component 3: Historical Investigation To earn a full A Level students have to complete a historical investigation (coursework) on a topic set within the context of 100 years. It is a piece of research that will be guided by your teacher. The topic is the Changing Nature of Warfare, 1798 –1918, which investigates, among other things, themes like leadership in war, including Napoleon, Helmut von Moltke and Douglas Haig.