Women in Blitz among topics of history Great Debate

The role of women in the Blitz of Liverpool during the Second World War was among stories retold in the words of Mersey schoolchildren in an event hosted by LJMU History.

Students were taking part in the Liverpool Heat of the Historical Association’s Great Debate, the public speaking competition for school years 10-13.

LJMU’s history staff welcomed 12 competitors from Archbishop Blanch School, North Liverpool College, St Mary's College, Hillside High School, Bluecoat School, Winstanley College, Upton Hall School, Wirral Grammar School

The youngsters platformed local historical episodes to tells global stories – ranging from the role of women in the Liverpool Blitz to Liverpool’s School of Tropical Medicine.

Dr Olivia Saunders, History Programme Leader at LJMU’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, said: “The audience and our judges were incredibly impressed by all the students, who spoke with passion and conviction about their subjects.

“The connections between Liverpool and the wider world were really showcased by these budding historians. Their vivid and engaging storytelling brought history to life and demonstrated the topics’ sustained contemporary relevance.”  

-The Liverpool Blitz killed more than 4,000 people, a death toll was second only to London, which suffered over 40,000 by the end of the war.

LJMU offers a range of degrees in History including BA (Hons) History, BA (Hons) History and Literature and BA(Hons) History with Foundation Year.

MAIN IMAGE: Liverpool winner and judges: L to R: Dr Mike Benbough-Jackson (LJMU), Matt Exley (National Museums Liverpool), Dr Lucinda Matthews-Jones (LJMU), winner (Hannah), and Dr Olivia Saunders.