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'National government has done more to improve people's health since 1900 than it did during the Industrial Age of 1750–1900.' How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
'National government has done more to improve people's health since 1900 than it did during the Industrial Age of 1750–1900.' How far do you agree? Give reasons for ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'National government has done more to improve people's health since 1900 than it did during the Industrial Age of 1750–1900.' How far do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Argument for Progress Since 1900
Answer
Since 1900, national governments have implemented various health policies that significantly improved public health. For instance, the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK in 1948 provided accessible healthcare to all citizens. This contrasts with the earlier period, where healthcare was less organized and often financially prohibitive for many individuals, leading to poor health outcomes.
Step 2
Examples of Health Improvements
Answer
Key improvements post-1900 include advances in medical technology, the introduction of vaccinations, sanitation regulations, and public health campaigns. For instance, the widespread use of vaccines has eradicated diseases like smallpox and significantly reduced others such as polio and measles.
Step 3
Argument Against the Statement
Answer
However, it is essential to recognize that during the Industrial Age, significant efforts were made to address public health concerns, albeit more reactively. For example, the Public Health Act of 1848 aimed to address sanitation issues caused by rapid urbanization. These measures laid the groundwork for later health improvements.
Step 4
Comparative Analysis
Answer
While both periods saw important developments, the scale and government involvement in health initiatives since 1900 are markedly different and more effective. National health measures became more systematic and universal, leading to a healthier population overall when compared to the more fragmented responses of the Industrial Age.
Step 5