This module examines the principal debates in British economic history from the mid-Victorian period to the start of the 21st century. The major running themes are the changing structure of the domestic economy, the role of the state in economic development, the role of economic ideas and economic thery and Britain’s changing position in the world economy. Particular consideration is given to the growth record; the rise of the service sector; changing patterns of state expenditure c.19th century classical economic throught, the Keynesian revolution and the monetarist counter-revolution; the rise and fall of sterling as a major international currency; the impact of war, depression and globalisation on Britain’s international trade and financial position; and Britain’s changing economic relationship with its Empire, with Europe and with the USA over the course of the twentieth century.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand the main features of British economic performance between 1850 and 2000
Understand Britain’s changing place in the world economy between 1850 and 2000
Understand the major shifts in economic policy and economic theory that have occurred over the same period
Be able to engage in critical debate on the causes and consequences of these changes
Students will also have been introduced to the key concepts in Economic history.
Assessment
26964-01 : essay : Coursework (20%)
26964-02 : class test : Class Test (20%)
26964-03 : Exam : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (60%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessments: 2 hr unseen exam (60%), 1 x 40/50 minute class tests (20%) one 1500 word essay Reassessment:Students will retake only those module components on which a fail mark has been achieved. The mark or marks will then be combined with the original mark achieved on any components passed first time (using the standard module weightings). For a class test failed first time, students be reassessed by means of a 1200-1500 word assignment.