A series of major transformations took place in Britain between the end of the seventeenth century and the middle of the nineteenth century.  This period saw the rise of a global empire, the beginning of an industrial revolution and the emergence of new forms of politics, culture and social life.  This course examines a process by which many British people came to believe, during this era, that they were living in a fundamentally new kind of society and it investigates a range of responses to that belief.

The course helps participants to develop a critical and historical perspective on major contemporary issues: from globalization and market relations, to models of social development, principles of politics and theories of the modern state.  It will encourage debate about the origins and character of early 'modernity' in Britain and its relationship to broader patterns of social change.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key issues relating to the social, economic, cultural and political history of Britain and its emergence as a world power.
2. Critically analyse and apply important concepts in the study of change in modern societies.
3. Evaluate and debate contemporary scholarship on British history.
4. Make critical use of period sources as a way of gaining information about the past.
5. Construct sustained evidence-based arguments addressing key issues in British history.
6. Design and complete a research project related to course themes with assistance from the convenor.

1st essay 2,500 words (35%) [assesses LOs 1,2,3,4,5]

Research essay 3,500 words (55%) [assesses LOs 1,2,3,4,5,6]

Oral and/or written contribution to class activities (10%) [assesses LOs 1,2,3,4]

• Langford, P., A Polite and Commercial People: England 1727-1783  (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1989).