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Date May 2022 Marks available 15 Reference code 22M.2.BP.TZ1.3
Level Both SL and HL Paper Paper 2 - first exams 2017 Time zone TZ1
Command term Evaluate Question number 3 Adapted from N/A

Question

Topic 2: Causes and effects of wars (750–1500)

Evaluate the significance of leaders to the outcomes of two wars in the period 750–1500, each chosen from a different region.

Markscheme

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the significance of leaders to the outcome of two wars in the period 750–1500, weighing up their significance or otherwise. The two wars must be from different regions, but the leaders may or may not be from the same region. Candidates may evaluate the leader’s personal characteristics and how these contributed in a positive or negative manner to the outcome of the war, for example Henry V’s courage and decisiveness in battle. Candidates may make an appraisal of the ability of the leaders to recognize able generals and follow their military advice, as done by Genghis Khan with Subutai and Jebe. Conversely, candidates may evaluate their willingness to follow ill-fated counsel such as Zhu Qizhen’s readiness to enact Wang Zhen’s advice before the Battle of Tumu, which resulted in his capture. Candidates may also evaluate tactical decisions made by leaders to gain an advantage over their enemies, for example Saladin’s selection of battlefields for the battle of Hattin. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example technological advances or alliances, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

Examiners report

The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the significance of leaders to the outcome of two wars in the period 750–1500, weighing up their significance or otherwise. The two leaders had to be chosen from different regions. Several responses were seen with King Richard I of England and Genghis Khan being popular examples. Appropriate campaigns and battles were chosen with some good analysis being well supported by accurate and relevant knowledge.

Syllabus sections

World history topics: first exams 2017 » 2. Causes and effects of wars (750–1500) » Course, practices and outcomes » Role and significance of leaders
World history topics: first exams 2017 » 2. Causes and effects of wars (750–1500) » Course, practices and outcomes
World history topics: first exams 2017 » 2. Causes and effects of wars (750–1500)
World history topics: first exams 2017

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