Modern History AOS 1 Practice Questions

Question 1

Describe the value of source B for a historian investigating the nature of dictator ship in Italy (5 marks)

Answer 1

Source B is valuable as it is a rich primary source. As a piece of propaganda, the photo shows how the Italian fascist government attempted to gain support of the population. Source B demonstrates the unique symbolism that was utilised by the Italian fascists to create a cult of personality.

Question 2

Describe the value of source B for a historian investigating the nature of dictator ship in Italy (5 marks) part 2

Answer 2

Mussolini represents himself as the all-powerful leader, through the use of ancient Roman military symbolism such as greeting the militia in the ruins of the ancient Colosseum and adopting the pose of a victorious general linking back to Italy’s glorious past. Source B also shows Mussolini using modern Catholic symbols such as the cross showing that he has the support of the Catholic Church.

Question 3

How does source A (Stilner’s analysis) reflect the impact of nazi ideology on religion? (3 marks)

Answer 3

Source A reflects how religion was suppressed and controlled as a result of Nazi ideology. The source shows how traditional Christian icons such as the cross and the bible were removed. It highlights how these were replaced by Nazi symbols such as the swastika and
Hitler’s ‘Mein Kampf’. As a dictatorship, the Nazi state wanted to control all aspects of German life, including religion.

Question 4

Using source 1 and your knowledge, outline the conditions of the Versailles treaty? (4 marks)

Question 5

Using source 2, describe the hyperinflation crisis of 1923

Question 5

Using source 2 and your own knowledge, explain the methods that Adolf Hitler utilised to gain power? (6 marks)

Question 6

Using source 2 and your own knowledge, discuss the role of economic hardship in the development of fascism in Germany between 1923 until 1935? (6 marks)

Question 7

Using source 1 and your own knowledge analyse the role of the treaty of Versailles causing World War II? (6 marks)

Question 8

Using the sources and your knowledge evaluate the role of Adolf Hitler in the development of fascism in Germany between 1923 until 1935 (10 marks)

Question 9

Analyse the role of the DAF in improving the German economic situation between 1934 and the 1939

Answer 9

The DAF (German Labour Front) played a key role in improving Germany’s economic situation between 1934 and 1939 by controlling the workforce and boosting productivity. After banning trade unions, the Nazis used the DAF to enforce labour discipline, prevent strikes, and ensure compliance with state goals. Programs like “Strength Through Joy” improved morale, while large-scale projects like the Autobahn reduced unemployment. Although wages stayed low and workers lost rights, the DAF helped stabilise the economy and supported rearmament efforts. The economic recovery, while partly superficial, gave the appearance of success and helped secure support for the regime.