"From Birth to Battle: The RAF, 1914-1945"
Time: 19:30 - 21:00
Location: Online
This course will explore how air power developed in Britain between 1914 and 1945.
Taught by:
Dr. Powell a Teaching Fellow in Air Power and Strategic Studies at the Royal Air Force College, Cranwell as part of the Portsmouth Military Education Team. He holds a PhD in Modern History from the University of Birmingham. His first book The Development of British Tactical Air Power, 1940-1943: A History of Army Co-operation Command was published by Palgrave Macmillan in 2016. He has published in a wide range of peer-reviewed journals and is a regular TVP World (Poland) and British Forces TV. His current research investigates the relationship between the Air Ministry and the British aircraft industry in the inter-war period.
This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
- Course Code: HBH90
- Dates: 14/05/24 - 18/06/24
- Time: 19:30 - 21:00
- Taught: Tue, Evening
- Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
- Location: Online
Course Code: HBH90
Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course delves into the evolution of British air power from 1914 to 1945. It examines how air power was employed during World War I, the emergence of the Royal Air Force, and its strategic and tactical applications. The inter-war period is explored, focusing on the RAF's struggle for survival and technological advancements. The course also delves into air defense developments of the 1930s and their impact on the Battle of Britain. It analyzes the challenges of rearming and Neville Chamberlain's appeasement policy. Furthermore, it scrutinizes the application of air power in World War II, including the Battle of Britain, tactical air power in various theaters, and the Strategic Air Offensive against Germany. The course emphasizes critical examination of primary sources to deepen historical understanding and assess their reliability and accuracy.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
Session 1: Learning Air Power 1914-1916
Session 2: Applying Air Power 1916-1918
Session 3: Preserving Independence 1919-1936
Session 4: Facing the Unknown 1936-1939
Session 5: Appeasement, 1937-1939
Session 6: The Challenges of Air Power 1939-1942
Session 7: The Effectiveness of Air Power (1) 1943-1945
Session 8: The Effectiveness of Air Power (2) 1943-1945.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
Students completing this course would gain a comprehensive understanding of the development and application of British air power from 1914 to 1945.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
An interest in 20th Century British history. . Readings to provide greater detail will be provided to students to enhance their understanding and the quality of class discussion,
An open mind and willingness to engage respectfully in class discussion and debate.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Tutor presentation, class discussion based on primary sources provided by the tutor.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
No. Just writing materials if you wish to take notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Other courses in British history. Please see the City Lit website.
