The 20th century

The 20th century page is built around the two world wars and the political changes around them.

Timeline anchors

The story in order

The First World War lasted from 1914 to 1918. It changed Britain deeply and is linked with remembrance on 11 November.

Voting rights changed after the war. In 1918 some women over 30 gained the parliamentary vote. In 1928 women and men gained equal voting rights from age 21.

The Second World War lasted from 1939 to 1945. Churchill led Britain for much of the war. Key terms include the Battle of Britain, the Blitz and D-Day.

The period also includes scientific achievement, such as Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin.

Test facts to know

• The First World War lasted from 1914 to 1918.
• The Battle of the Somme in 1916 is associated with very high casualties.
• Armistice Day is 11 November and links to the end of the First World War.
• In 1918 women over 30 gained the parliamentary vote and in 1928 voting rights became equal for men and women over 21.
• Ireland was partitioned after conflict, with Northern Ireland remaining in the UK.
• The inter-war period included economic problems and social change.
• The Second World War lasted from 1939 to 1945.
• The Battle of Britain was an air battle in 1940.
• The Blitz was a bombing campaign against UK cities.
• D-Day in 1944 was the Allied landing in Normandy.
• Winston Churchill was Prime Minister during the Second World War and became a symbol of wartime leadership.
• Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin.

How questions may test it

• Link 1914–1918 to the First World War.
• Link 1939–1945 to the Second World War.
• Distinguish 1918 from 1928 in women’s voting rights.
• Identify Battle of Britain, Blitz and D-Day.
• Identify Churchill and Fleming.

Key terms

First World War, Battle of the Somme, Armistice Day, Remembrance, partition of Ireland, Second World War, Battle of Britain, Blitz, D-Day, Winston Churchill, Alexander Fleming, penicillin.