Examiner’s Specific Advice

This question tests several skills and also your knowledge of the topic; in this case the reasons why the Republicans lost the presidency in 1932 after controlling it since 1920. The question requires a focused explanation of a range of reasons why Hoover lost and why Franklin Roosevelt won.

The key thing is not to narrate and describe, but to use your knowledge purposefully in order to explain what happened and why. You should also think about the length of your answer – a shorter, more coherent and controlled answer is always preferable to a longer, more detailed answer that is unfinished or lacking in clarity and accuracy. The amount of detail you include should take into account the number of marks available. You need to produce a concise answer to this 12-mark question in order to ensure you have adequate time to deal with the longer, essay-type question that follows. 

Exemplar Question

1 (01) Explain why Herbert Hoover was defeated in the presidential election of 1932. [12 marks]

Plan

• Identify the context of 1932 – how the economic situation influenced the election and why voters were dissatisfied
• Specific evidence to show strengths of Franklin Roosevelt and possible mistakes by the Republicans
• Conclusion – any links, or prioritisation?

View Exemplar Answer 1

View Exemplar Answer 2