OCR GCSE History A key terms

A law passed in 1689 which restricted royal power and protected Parliament’s authority over matters including taxation, legislation and its own proceedings.

Support or cooperation involving both major US political parties: the Democrats and Republicans.

The wars of 1639 and 1640 arising from Charles I’s attempts to impose his religious authority on Scotland.

The combined British and American occupation zones of Germany, joined in January 1947 to support economic recovery.

A movement encouraging black South Africans to reject racial inferiority, develop pride and organise independently against oppression.

A movement associated with Steve Biko that encouraged black pride, psychological liberation and independent black-led organisation to challenge apartheid.

A list of people whom employers refuse to hire because of their alleged beliefs, associations or activities.

The practice of denying someone employment because their name has been placed on a list of people considered unacceptable, often because of alleged political beliefs or associations.

People who supported the British Crown during the American War of Independence. Black Loyalists included formerly enslaved people who fought alongside the British.

Illegal trade in goods outside official restrictions, such as the sale of rationed products without the required coupons.

An African American political organisation founded by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale in 1966, combining armed self-defence with demands for social change and community support programmes.

A movement promoting African American pride, independent political power and control over their communities; many supporters also defended the right to self-defence.

A craft worker who makes or repairs iron objects; horseshoes are an example of the metalwork needed by a castle household.

A national organisation established in December 1975 to unite women’s organisations around issues including education, housing, labour, rural development and detentions.

An offence involving speech or behaviour considered insulting to God or sacred religious beliefs.

Meaning ‘lightning war’: rapid attacks intended to defeat an enemy quickly.

An attempt to prevent an enemy’s trade or supplies from reaching it, especially by controlling access by sea.

The false accusation that Jewish people murdered Christian children for religious purposes.

The Boer communities in southern Africa against whom Britain fought in 1880–1881 and 1899–1902.

A concealed device designed to injure or kill someone who disturbs or triggers it.

The official book of services and prayers introduced in English under Edward VI in 1549, composed mainly by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer.

The illegal production, transport or sale of alcohol, particularly associated with US prohibition.

A raider from the English–Scottish borderlands who stole livestock and goods, often as part of a powerful family group.

Warfare connected with control of frontier regions or neighbouring territories.

An organised refusal to buy goods or use services in order to put pressure on a business or authority.

The removal of the Pope’s authority over the English Church under Henry VIII, establishing the monarch’s authority instead.

Taking a confrontation close to war in an attempt to force an opponent to give way.