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How useful are Sources A and B for an enquiry into government control of news reporting about the impact of bombing in London? Explain your answer, using Sources A and B and your knowledge of the historical context. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
How useful are Sources A and B for an enquiry into government control of news reporting about the impact of bombing in London? Explain your answer, using Sources A ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How useful are Sources A and B for an enquiry into government control of news reporting about the impact of bombing in London? Explain your answer, using Sources A and B and your knowledge of the historical context. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
How useful are Source A for an enquiry into government control of news reporting?
Answer
Source A provides significant insights into the government's control over news reporting. It demonstrates that the government censored certain information to maintain morale during the bombings in London. The account by Mary Hanway mentions her perspective as a teenager witnessing a traumatic event, highlighting the immediacy of the situation. The government's intention to prevent panic is shown through the deliberate management of information. Furthermore, the provenance of Source A, being a personal account published in 2010, allows it to reflect on historical context and government censorship from a hindsight perspective.
Step 2
How useful are Source B for an enquiry into government control of news reporting?
Answer
Source B illustrates the government's framing of information during the bombings in London. The headline emphasizes survival and resilience, which is critical in understanding the propaganda efforts during the Blitz. By focusing on surviving landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, the government aimed to convey stability amidst chaos. The provenance of Source B also plays a role; it is important to note that it was published during a time when newspapers had to adhere closely to government guidelines. This highlights the manipulation of media to serve a specific narrative, revealing the extent of government control.