Topic 5: Revolution

Since 1750, social and economic conditions have generated revolutionary ideas, leaders, and movements that have effected significant social change. These changes continue to influence contemporary life and are likely to have ramifications for the future.

Students undertake a study of one revolution from 1750 onwards. They investigate the ways in which people, groups, and institutions have challenged and/or then adapted to existing political structures, social organisation, and economic models before, during, and in the aftermath of a revolution.

Students undertake a study that may include, but is not limited to, revolutions in:

• North America
• France
• China
• Russia
• Cuba
• Iran.

The following are focus areas for study in this topic:

• The nature of the pre-revolutionary society and government. Examples include social structures, political structures, and economic conditions.
• The causes of revolution, the role of revolutionaries, and the influence of key ideas and ideologies. Examples include Marxism, nationalism, republicanism, anarchism; social, political, and economic circumstances; experiences of revolutionaries; and external forces.
• The consolidation of power by the revolutionaries, and the manner in which internal and external threats were dealt with. Examples include force and terror, civil war, economic and political measures, propaganda, and external support.
• The impact of revolution on those who experienced it. Examples include how the revolution was seen through artefacts, architecture, art, music, and writing; and the different experiences and responses of sections of society, such as women, young people, and minority groups.
• The ongoing significance of the revolution to others. Examples include the impact on future generations or other revolutionary movements; the growth of nationalism; the spread of ideologies; isolationism; and the gain or loss of civil liberties.