Photo AI
Study Sources B and C in the Sources Booklet - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 2
Study Sources B and C in the Sources Booklet. How useful are Sources B and C to an historian studying the remilitarisation of the Rhineland? Explain your answer us... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Sources B and C in the Sources Booklet - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate the usefulness of Source B
Answer
Source B is useful for understanding the causes behind the remilitarisation of the Rhineland. It highlights the political context, particularly the 1935 mutual assistance pact between France and the USSR, which Germany had to consider in its actions. Hitler's deviation from the agreed peaceful solutions proposed at Locarno is evident, as the source suggests that Germany was strengthening its military presence contrary to its commitments.
Step 2
Evaluate the usefulness of Source C
Answer
Source C provides a critique of the British government's response to Germany's actions. It reflects public sentiment in Britain regarding the remilitarisation, revealing fears that it could lead to further aggression, expanding into broader European conflicts. This insight is crucial for understanding the immediate reactions to Hitler's remilitarisation and the perception of the actions taken by the British government at the time.
Step 3
Contextual knowledge supporting Sources B and C
Answer
The remilitarisation of the Rhineland in 1936 was a significant breach of the Treaty of Versailles. Contextually, Hitler sought to challenge France's influence in Europe and test the determination of Britain and France to respond to his expansions. The evaluation of both sources helps illustrate the interconnectedness of international agreements and national sentiments during this volatile period. Historians can use this information to assess the weaknesses in the appeasement policies that would later have dire consequences.