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

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.

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.