Subjects
Maths
Chemistry
Biology
English Language
History
Responding to change (a2 only)
Infection and response
Homeostasis and response
Energy transfers (a2 only)
Cell biology
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments (a-level only)
Biological molecules
Organisation
Substance exchange
Bioenergetics
Genetic information & variation
Inheritance, variation and evolution
Genetics & ecosystems (a2 only)
Ecology
Cells
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Britain & the wider world: 1745 -1901
1l the quest for political stability: germany, 1871-1991
The cold war
Inter-war germany
Medieval period: 1066 -1509
2d religious conflict and the church in england, c1529-c1570
2o democracy and nazism: germany, 1918-1945
1f industrialisation and the people: britain, c1783-1885
1c the tudors: england, 1485-1603
2m wars and welfare: britain in transition, 1906-1957
World war two & the holocaust
2n revolution and dictatorship: russia, 1917-1953
2s the making of modern britain, 1951-2007
World war one
Britain: 1509 -1745
Show all topics
History
14 Dec 2025
172
4 pages
Annabelle Wardle @annabellewardle_
The 1950s in Britain were a fascinating mix of progress and stagnation. Whilst some people enjoyed new prosperity... Show more
The 1950s brought exciting changes to how British people lived and spent their money. Consumer goods like televisions, washing machines, and fridge-freezers became much more common thanks to hire purchase schemes that let families buy now and pay later without drowning in debt.
When ITV launched in 1955, it brought the first TV advertisements to British screens, showing people what they could buy and fueling the shopping boom. People had more free time for hobbies like gardening and DIY, which meant even more products flying off the shelves. Car ownership jumped by 25% between 1957 and 1959, helped by new roads like the M1.
However, this prosperity wasn't universal. Most people still lived in council housing or rented accommodation rather than owning their homes. Slums and poverty remained widespread in cities, proving that the 'age of affluence' didn't reach everyone.
Key Point The 1950s economic boom was real but uneven - whilst some enjoyed new wealth, many remained in poverty.
Traditional British class structures began showing cracks during the 1950s. The satire boom, including plays like 'Look Back in Anger' (1956), encouraged people to question authority rather than blindly follow it. The introduction of Life Peers in 1957 meant House of Lords positions wouldn't automatically pass to children, and women could join the Lords for the first time.
Women's lives saw mixed progress. By 1959, one-third of women worked , giving them more independence. Equal pay became law for teachers and civil servants, providing some women with proper financial freedom.
Yet major inequalities persisted. Most women still couldn't get equal pay, and mortgages and bank accounts had to be in their husband's or father's name. This meant married women remained financially dependent despite working.
Key Point Social change was beginning, but wouldn't fully arrive until the 1960s - women gained some rights but remained largely under male control.
The 1950s witnessed the birth of modern teenage culture as young people gained more money and freedom. University attendance among teenage girls rose from 1.2% to 4% between 1950 and 1959, whilst youth subcultures like mods and rockers emerged as teenagers had more disposable income.
New magazines targeted girls, though many focused on becoming good housewives rather than careers. Washing machines freed up time previously spent on household chores, giving young women more opportunities to socialise and develop their own interests.
However, progress was limited and gendered. Sex education was virtually non-existent, leaving girls to learn from their mothers. Most female university students still left their careers to marry and have children, whilst attitudes towards pre-marital sex remained harsh - but only for girls, not boys.
The changes mainly benefited young men, who enjoyed greater income, free time, and fewer social restrictions than their female peers.
Key Point Teenage culture emerged in the 1950s, but the benefits were unequal - boys gained much more freedom than girls.
Britain became more diverse during the 1950s, with 210,000 Commonwealth immigrants arriving by 1958. This brought exposure to different cultures but also tensions, culminating in the Notting Hill riots of 1958. Drug culture, particularly cannabis use, became more visible in certain communities.
Unfortunately, many immigrants ended up in urban slums rather than better housing, and highly skilled immigrants often left for Australia seeking better opportunities. Few mosques or other religious establishments were built, showing society's limited acceptance of different faiths.
Censorship laws began facing challenges, leading to more daring films and TV shows like 'A Taste of Honey' (1958). However, this new openness sparked backlash from those who saw it as promoting immorality and depravity.
These social and moral changes were significant but gradual. The shifts in attitudes and demographics during the 1950s laid groundwork for bigger transformations in the following decade, even though immediate impact remained limited.
Key Point Cultural diversity and moral attitudes began shifting in the 1950s, but change was slow and often met with resistance.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
3
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key developments in post-war Britain from 1945 to 1964, including the establishment of the welfare state, the rise of the NHS, and the political landscape shaped by leaders like Clement Attlee and Winston Churchill. This summary highlights the economic policies, social reforms, and foreign relations that defined the era, making it essential for understanding modern British history.
HistoryExplore the significant social and cultural transformations in Britain during the 1960s, including the impact of liberal reforms, the rise of counterculture, and key legislative changes under Wilson's Labour government (1964-1970). This summary highlights major events such as the introduction of the Equal Pay Act, the Abortion Act, and the influence of youth activism and music protests. Ideal for AQA A-Level history students.
HistoryExplore the dynamics of Conservative governments in post-war Britain, focusing on key leaders like Churchill, Eden, and Macmillan. This summary covers political strategies, domestic policies, and the impact of events like the Suez Crisis and internal Labour divisions. Ideal for AQA A Level students studying Modern Britain, this resource provides insights into the political landscape from 1951 to the early 1960s.
HistoryExplore the key factors behind Labour's decisive victory in the 1945 British General Election. This summary highlights the political landscape, voter sentiments, and the impact of wartime leadership on the election outcome. Ideal for A-Level History students studying 20th century Britain.
HistoryExplore the key factors behind the Conservative Party's dominance in Britain from 1951 to 1964. This summary covers the influential prime ministers, major domestic policies, and the socio-political landscape of the era, including the impact of the Suez Crisis and internal Labour divisions. Ideal for students studying UK politics and modern British history.
HistoryExplore the pivotal events and challenges in British politics from 1964 to 1979, including key figures like Harold Wilson and Ted Heath, major elections, and significant legislation. This timeline highlights the economic crises, union conflicts, and government responses that shaped modern Britain. Ideal for A Level and GCSE history students seeking to deepen their understanding of this transformative era.
HistoryQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Annabelle Wardle
@annabellewardle_
The 1950s in Britain were a fascinating mix of progress and stagnation. Whilst some people enjoyed new prosperity and freedoms, many others remained stuck in poverty and old-fashioned attitudes. Understanding this decade helps explain how modern British society began to... Show more
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The 1950s brought exciting changes to how British people lived and spent their money. Consumer goods like televisions, washing machines, and fridge-freezers became much more common thanks to hire purchase schemes that let families buy now and pay later without drowning in debt.
When ITV launched in 1955, it brought the first TV advertisements to British screens, showing people what they could buy and fueling the shopping boom. People had more free time for hobbies like gardening and DIY, which meant even more products flying off the shelves. Car ownership jumped by 25% between 1957 and 1959, helped by new roads like the M1.
However, this prosperity wasn't universal. Most people still lived in council housing or rented accommodation rather than owning their homes. Slums and poverty remained widespread in cities, proving that the 'age of affluence' didn't reach everyone.
Key Point: The 1950s economic boom was real but uneven - whilst some enjoyed new wealth, many remained in poverty.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Traditional British class structures began showing cracks during the 1950s. The satire boom, including plays like 'Look Back in Anger' (1956), encouraged people to question authority rather than blindly follow it. The introduction of Life Peers in 1957 meant House of Lords positions wouldn't automatically pass to children, and women could join the Lords for the first time.
Women's lives saw mixed progress. By 1959, one-third of women worked , giving them more independence. Equal pay became law for teachers and civil servants, providing some women with proper financial freedom.
Yet major inequalities persisted. Most women still couldn't get equal pay, and mortgages and bank accounts had to be in their husband's or father's name. This meant married women remained financially dependent despite working.
Key Point: Social change was beginning, but wouldn't fully arrive until the 1960s - women gained some rights but remained largely under male control.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The 1950s witnessed the birth of modern teenage culture as young people gained more money and freedom. University attendance among teenage girls rose from 1.2% to 4% between 1950 and 1959, whilst youth subcultures like mods and rockers emerged as teenagers had more disposable income.
New magazines targeted girls, though many focused on becoming good housewives rather than careers. Washing machines freed up time previously spent on household chores, giving young women more opportunities to socialise and develop their own interests.
However, progress was limited and gendered. Sex education was virtually non-existent, leaving girls to learn from their mothers. Most female university students still left their careers to marry and have children, whilst attitudes towards pre-marital sex remained harsh - but only for girls, not boys.
The changes mainly benefited young men, who enjoyed greater income, free time, and fewer social restrictions than their female peers.
Key Point: Teenage culture emerged in the 1950s, but the benefits were unequal - boys gained much more freedom than girls.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Britain became more diverse during the 1950s, with 210,000 Commonwealth immigrants arriving by 1958. This brought exposure to different cultures but also tensions, culminating in the Notting Hill riots of 1958. Drug culture, particularly cannabis use, became more visible in certain communities.
Unfortunately, many immigrants ended up in urban slums rather than better housing, and highly skilled immigrants often left for Australia seeking better opportunities. Few mosques or other religious establishments were built, showing society's limited acceptance of different faiths.
Censorship laws began facing challenges, leading to more daring films and TV shows like 'A Taste of Honey' (1958). However, this new openness sparked backlash from those who saw it as promoting immorality and depravity.
These social and moral changes were significant but gradual. The shifts in attitudes and demographics during the 1950s laid groundwork for bigger transformations in the following decade, even though immediate impact remained limited.
Key Point: Cultural diversity and moral attitudes began shifting in the 1950s, but change was slow and often met with resistance.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
3
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key developments in post-war Britain from 1945 to 1964, including the establishment of the welfare state, the rise of the NHS, and the political landscape shaped by leaders like Clement Attlee and Winston Churchill. This summary highlights the economic policies, social reforms, and foreign relations that defined the era, making it essential for understanding modern British history.
HistoryExplore the significant social and cultural transformations in Britain during the 1960s, including the impact of liberal reforms, the rise of counterculture, and key legislative changes under Wilson's Labour government (1964-1970). This summary highlights major events such as the introduction of the Equal Pay Act, the Abortion Act, and the influence of youth activism and music protests. Ideal for AQA A-Level history students.
HistoryExplore the dynamics of Conservative governments in post-war Britain, focusing on key leaders like Churchill, Eden, and Macmillan. This summary covers political strategies, domestic policies, and the impact of events like the Suez Crisis and internal Labour divisions. Ideal for AQA A Level students studying Modern Britain, this resource provides insights into the political landscape from 1951 to the early 1960s.
HistoryExplore the key factors behind Labour's decisive victory in the 1945 British General Election. This summary highlights the political landscape, voter sentiments, and the impact of wartime leadership on the election outcome. Ideal for A-Level History students studying 20th century Britain.
HistoryExplore the key factors behind the Conservative Party's dominance in Britain from 1951 to 1964. This summary covers the influential prime ministers, major domestic policies, and the socio-political landscape of the era, including the impact of the Suez Crisis and internal Labour divisions. Ideal for students studying UK politics and modern British history.
HistoryExplore the pivotal events and challenges in British politics from 1964 to 1979, including key figures like Harold Wilson and Ted Heath, major elections, and significant legislation. This timeline highlights the economic crises, union conflicts, and government responses that shaped modern Britain. Ideal for A Level and GCSE history students seeking to deepen their understanding of this transformative era.
HistoryQuotes from every main character
English LiteratureApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Sociology