Post-war consensus

Start with the mind maps

The mind map on why a post-war consensus developed is a useful starting point. It covers wartime experience, the war coalition and electoral popularity, as well as issues such as union power and resistance to reforms. Use its branches to make a list of the reasons and issues you want to explore further.

Next, look at The Conservatives and the Post-war Consensus. It presents differences between the parties alongside areas of convergence, with the mixed economy as a central issue. Compare its branches with your first list and note where they add detail.

Check ideas with the quiz

The quiz asks about factors that made up the post-war consensus and the traditionalist view of it. Try it after reading the maps, then return to the relevant branches as you consider your answers. You could also write a brief explanation of each idea in your own words.

Use the flashcard deck Post War Consensus to go over terms and questions. Its cards include full employment, the welfare state, trade unions and whether there was a consensus. These give you prompts to connect with the ideas in the maps.

Explore more perspectives

Making of Modern Britain: Consensus links the topic to Britain's recent history, including the Great Depression. Another map covers the origins of the consensus, while The post-war consensus includes the mixed economy and Keynesian principles. These resources offer different starting points for organizing your notes.

Use the wider unit

This topic is a section of the Post-War Britain unit in History. Use the topic resources to gather questions and key terms as you explore the wider unit. When you are ready, try the quiz and use a map or flashcard to follow up on an idea.