This week marked the third annual Teesdale history lectures series, with over 120 GCSE history students attending.
Dr Andre Keil, a Senior Lecturer from Liverpool John Moores University, spoke about the political and social problems that birthed the Weimar Republic in Germany after World War One. He showed how rival left-wing interpretations of the ways in which the new republic should be developed led to violence and discord.
The second lecture was delivered by Assistant Professor of U.S. History from Durham University, Dr Kevin Waite. Kevin shared elements of his current research and how it has engaged a wider public debate through his writing for the Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post. He showed how a traditional view of California as a liberal state on the side of the North during the American Civil War is challenged by the reality of slaveholding and pro-Confederate forces in the state. This was a fascinating insight particularly for Year 11 students who have just completed a module on the American West.
The final lecture was given by Dr Katherine Butler of Northumbria University. Katherine is both a historian of Tudor England and of music and showed how important music was in the Tudor era and how Elizabeth I used her musical talents to project an image to her kingdom. Students were able to listen to a piece of music written for the Queen and understand how culture can impact on politics.
The afternoon allowed students to make connections between the lectures and different aspects of the modules they have studied and also see how history has real relevance in the present.
Dr Henderson, Head of History and Sixth Form said: "We are really grateful for the excellent links that we have with local universities and appreciative that Andre, Kevin and Katherine gave their time to come and speak to the students about such fascinating topics."
Thank you to Dr Andre Keil, Dr Kevin Waite and Dr Katherine Butler for providing such an interesting and insightful afternoon.