9 History Elective

Topic 4: Ancient, Medieval and Modern Revolutions

Rationale: The aim of this topic is to explore the Revolutions from the Ancient, Medieval and Modern Periods and the profound impact on modern political and social structures as an example of continuity and change. Through this topic students will examine Revolutions including the Athenian revolution, focus on  French Revolution with the the fall of the Ancien Régime, an absolute feudal monarchy, the rise of the Estates-General (the clergy, the nobility and common people), the importance of individuals like Robespierre, Marat, Danton and Napoleon Bonaparte in the context of the development of modern democracy and human rights during the Revolution, the Reign of Terror and the First French Empire. Students will also explore the Scientific Revolution with key individuals, contributions to society and the impact of these developments. Furthermore, students will deepen student understanding of imperialism, nationalism, communism and revolution through a study of Cuba from the 1950s. In particular, this unit focuses on Cuba’s transformation from dictatorship to temporary democracy to a communist state. Students will examine historical issues and debate in relation to the ongoing effects of the Cuban Revolution on Cuba.  Throughout the topic, students will examine the various contexts that give rise to revolutions and differing perspectives with particular attention to historical causation and factors contributing to continuity and change.