Source A tells us that in the Blitz, people 'didn't have to be in uniform to be heroes'

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Emily Hallam

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Girls

GCSE History Coursework

Objective Numbers 2 & 3

Britain In The Age of Total War 1939 - 45

  1. Source A tells us that in the Blitz, people ‘didn’t have to be in uniform to be heroes’; ordinary civilians were involved with the war effort, implying that in previous wars, they had played no direct role, and people did have to be in uniform to be heroes. They showed that soldiers were not the only contributors to victory, but also ordinary people showed that they could play just as important a part for their nation, by sacrifice. It illustrates the good spirits of the British people in their efforts to overcome and ignore the devastation of the Blitz. It states ‘Out of terror and tragedy came courage and an unshakeable determination.’ This shows us the height of the British morale; although the citizens were facing disastrous and frightening situations, they never gave up and showed outstanding bravery, even in the face of adversity. The source then goes on to describe their strength of heart, saying ‘Those at home in the most appalling circumstances kept their sense of humour.’ Even though the living conditions of the people in the home front could be horrific, and uncomfortable, they laughed and made jokes, and helped each other to get by. Humour helped distract them from the suffering, grief and distress they were facing. The last sentence: ‘Their memories will break your hearts and make you smile,’ tells us that the stories of their experiences will have a great impact on you, they will make you sad, and at the same time proud. Although the British people experienced terrifying happenings, they responded to the Blitz with courage, determination and an ability to overcome sorrow.
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  1. B tells us that targets hit were not only military installations, as this scene depicts a school playground, littered with body bags after an air raid, showing that children were probably killed. It shows the random nature of the bombing, and how localised it was, as the background houses are untouched. It shows people helping to sort the bodies. As well as the uniformed workers, there are people not in uniform, which ...

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