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Study Sources A and B in the Sources Booklet - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 2
Study Sources A and B in the Sources Booklet. How useful are Sources A and B for an enquiry into workhouses in Whitechapel? Explain your answer, using Sources A an... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Sources A and B in the Sources Booklet - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
How useful is Source A for an enquiry into workhouses in Whitechapel?
Answer
Source A is useful because it provides detailed insights into the daily routine within workhouses, emphasizing that they offered some basic support for the homeless poor. It highlights the monotony of life in the workhouse, suggesting that conditions were not only tough but often dreary. Additionally, the source gives a personal account—Jack London, who experienced these conditions, suggests a more realistic view of life in a workhouse, enhancing its reliability. His interactions with others reveal that this was a shared experience, thus providing a broader perspective on the hardships faced.
Step 2
How useful is Source B for an enquiry into workhouses in Whitechapel?
Answer
Source B is equally useful as it sheds light on the attitudes towards workhouses and the experiences of families trying to gain admission. It reflects societal perceptions that conditions in workhouses were dire, particularly for women and children. The drawing used in the newspaper implies broader public awareness and concern regarding workhouse conditions, drawing attention to families being separated and the inadequate provisions for the elderly. This context aids in understanding the severity of the situation, supporting inferences about the despair faced by individuals.
Step 3
Historical context to support Sources A and B
Answer
To contextualize these sources, it is essential to understand that during this period, workhouse conditions were deliberately harsh to deter people from seeking help. Families entering workhouses often faced separation, which compounded their suffering. Additionally, women faced specific challenges, such as being tasked with cleaning after completing their work. This contextual information enriches our interpretation of both sources, indicating that despite their use in research, they also reflect broader societal issues of the time.