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Year 10 - History

What sources can tell us about the expansion of Empire

Britain: Migration, empires and the people - c790 to the present day

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about a theme in British history over a period of roughly 1000 years. They examine this theme, analysing the impact it had in Medieval, Early Modern, Industrial and Modern Britain, with a particular focus on change and continuity.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain that different sources can tell us different things about the impact of the expansion of empire, which has been debated by historians.

Key Notes

  • Historians draw upon a range of sources and interpretations to study the expansion of the British Empire.
  • Sources may tell us different things about the expansion of empire depending on their provenance.
  • Some historians argue that the expansion of empire did have some positive impacts, particularly in India.
  • Many historians criticise the British for the cruel and violent treatment of indigenous peoples in the colonies.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • interpretation: the process by which we analyse and explain past events
  • provenance: a term used to describe a source's background; its nature, origin and purpose

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • All British sources on imperial expansion were positive.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

Historians draw upon a range of sources and interpretations to study the expansion of the British Empire. Sources may tell us different things about the expansion of empire depending on their provenance.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'interpretation'

the process by which we analyse and explain past events.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: All British sources on imperial expansion were positive. Correction: Not all British sources on imperial expansion were positive. There was nuance due to British awareness of the realities of empire. However, British sources are more likely to be positive in outlook regarding British imperial expansion.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 History guide library.