Britain Transformed: Society, Politics and Identity, 1919-1999

What is the course about?

This course explores the major transformations that shaped Britain from the First World War to the end of the Twentieth Century. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the political, economic, social, and cultural history of Britain in the last century.

Key themes include the impact of the two World Wars, the rise of mass democracy, the expansion of the welfare state, the decline of empire, and changing ideas of class, gender, and national identity. The course engages with influential debates around consensus and conflict, affluence and austerity, and the contested meanings of ‘Britishness’ in an era marked by immigration, media revolutions, and social change. While rooted in domestic developments, the course also considers Britain’s evolving place in the world, particularly through the lenses of de-colonisation, globalisation, and post-imperial identity.

What will we cover?

• Britain after the First World War: democracy, discontent, and depression.
• The impact of the Second World War and the postwar settlement.
• The creation, expansion, and challenges of the welfare state.
• Consensus politics, social change, and affluence in the 1950s and 1960s.
• Immigration, race, and the reshaping of British identity.
• Class, labour, and industrial conflict in postwar Britain.
• Gender roles, feminism, and transformations in family life.
• Popular culture, media, and consumer society.
• Britain’s changing place in the world: decolonisation, the Cold War, and Europe.
• From crisis to change: Thatcherism, New Labour, and the end of the century.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Describe the key political, social, and cultural changes in Britain between 1919 and 1999.
• Identify how the two World Wars shaped British politics and society.
• Analyse the impact of the welfare state, decolonisation, and immigration on British life.
• Discuss shifting ideas of class, gender, and national identity across the century.
• Evaluate the tensions between consensus and conflict in twentieth-century Britain.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable both for newcomers to the subject and for those who have some background knowledge. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our history, politics and current affairs courses, an open mind and a respectful willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

Given the sensitive nature of some of the topics the course will explore, we also expect everyone to engage group and class discussions with respect and the willingness to learn from others.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will be delivered through a blend of tutor-led talks and discussions. You will be encouraged to actively participate, share your perspectives, and engage critically with the material. Contributions to group dialogue are welcomed as a key part of the learning experience, and for a collaborative environment where diverse viewpoints can be explored and debated constructively.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no extra costs for this course, though you may find it helpful to bring a notebook or electronic device to take notes during sessions.             

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Courses on British history starting in September.  Please see the City Lit website.