Question 27: “Opposition to the Nazi regime was limited and unsuccessful between 1933 and 1939.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

[Section 14: European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939)]

Question is understood and the reasons for limited opposition are identified. Some opposition groups are mentioned (KPD and so on) but knowledge is not extensive. There are inaccuracies, for example, mixing up Edelweiss and White Rose. Most importantly some knowledge (Kreisau Circle and July plot) is outside the timeframe of the question. Best fit is the mid 7–9 markband.

Question 28: Discuss the reasons for political polarization in Spain between 1931 and 1936.

[Section 14: European states in the inter-war years (1918–1939)]

Full awareness of the demands of the question with some good contextual knowledge of a range of issues. There is detailed knowledge and developed critical analysis. Some points are made clearly in relation to the question (for example, on Largo Caballero and Casas Viejas), thus placing it in the mid 13–15 markband.

Question 29: “The policy of appeasement was necessary because, by the mid-1930s, collective security had failed.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

[Section 15: Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945)]

Full awareness of the demands of the question with a good understanding of the political context of the 1930s. There is balance with consideration of the failure of Collective Security as well as arguments in favour of appeasement (for example, fear of communism). However, one key area was missing: the need to buy time to rearm, which was often cited in debates on appeasement. Best fit is the mid 13–15 markband.