In the twentieth century, liberal democracies came under increasing challenge. The options in the Edexcel A-Level History course will allow students to understand the nature, and effectiveness, of the response to these challenges. Studying two different countries allows students to develop a greater understanding of the challenges experienced by Britain and the USA, and of the contrasts and similarities in the responses (although students will not be required to answer comparative questions that link the breadth and the chosen depth option). In the British study, students will explore: • A changing political and economic environment, 1918–79 • Creating a welfare state, 1918–79 • Society in transition, 1918–79 • The changing quality of life, 1918–79 Historical interpretation study: What impact did Thatcher’s governments (1979–90) have on Britain, 1979–97 In the US study, students will explore: • Affluence and conformity, 1955–63 • Protest and reaction, 1963–72 • Social and political change, 1973–80 • Republican dominance and its opponents, 1981–92 In the study of Industrialisation and social change in Britain, 1759–1928, students will explore: • Josiah Wedgwood: china and canals, 1759–87 • Samuel Greg: cotton and cottages, 1784–1816 • Isambard Kingdom Brunel: railways and ships, 1833–59 • John Kemp Starley: cycles, cycling clubs and emancipation, 1885–1901 • Herbert Austin: creating and adapting to market forces, 1905–28 • Changing patterns of adult work and working conditions • The world of childhood