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How useful are Sources B and C to an historian studying the policy of appeasement? Explain your answer using Sources B and C and your contextual knowledge. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 2
How useful are Sources B and C to an historian studying the policy of appeasement? Explain your answer using Sources B and C and your contextual knowledge.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How useful are Sources B and C to an historian studying the policy of appeasement? Explain your answer using Sources B and C and your contextual knowledge. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate the usefulness of Source B
Answer
Source B is useful for understanding the context of appeasement. It highlights how Chamberlain believed appeasement could prevent war with Germany. The source shows that, given the threats posed by Hitler, policymakers felt pressured to negotiate. This reflects the broader context of the period where many leaders viewed war as catastrophic and sought to maintain peace through concessions. Additionally, the source provides a perspective on why Britain initially supported the policy despite its eventual failure.
Step 2
Evaluate the usefulness of Source C
Answer
Source C critiques the policy of appeasement, illustrating the concern regarding Hitler's intentions. It indicates that this viewpoint was not universally held; there were significant fears that appeasement would only embolden Hitler. The cartoon emphasizes the skepticism of appeasement's effectiveness, suggesting that while it aimed to preserve peace, it may have actually made Germany more aggressive. This reflects the division in public and political opinion regarding appeasement at the time.
Step 3
Contextual knowledge and overall evaluation
Answer
In addition to the sources, contextual knowledge plays a crucial role in evaluating appeasement. Understanding the impact of the Treaty of Versailles, the economic conditions of the 1930s, and the rise of fascism provides depth to the analysis. The contextual backdrop illustrates that many countries were hesitant to confront Hitler directly due to the traumatic memories of World War I. Ultimately, while Sources B and C provide valuable insights into the policy of appeasement, a well-rounded evaluation must consider the broader historical context to grasp why appeasement was pursued and the ramifications it held.