Anarchy in the UK: A History of Punk from 1976-78

Discover what 70s punk subculture can tell us about contemporary history

In the late 1970s a new youth subculture emerged in the UK. This, of course, was punk, and a cultural revolt was underway.

On this course, you will learn about the emergence of punk and its diverse range of meanings. You’ll use that lens to explore how youth cultures provided space for people to reimagine, discover and challenge the society and communities in which they were coming of age.

You’ll explore punk as a tool of expression for young people, and how it related to politics and events. You’ll consider punk’s relationship with gender, class, race, sexuality and protest, drawing comparisons with the youth culture of today.

Experience 70s youth culture by making your own punk fanzine

Through studying punk culture in 70s Britain, you’ll come to understand what we can learn about history through youth culture.

This history course also has an emphasis on the creative side of punk. You’ll explore DIY punk design and writing, epitomised by fanzines. You’ll learn how to create a real-life fanzine of your own, all the way to publishing and distribution. This will help strengthen your communication skills and encourage independent thought and creativity.

Discover research methods

By investigating the history of Punk, the course offers a creative resource for you to explore and develop your critical thinking skills and will prepare you for study in higher education.

Studying History develops expertise that can enable you to gain highly sought-after transferable skills.

This cultural studies course is aimed at students interested in studying contemporary history at university.

It will also interest those involved in punk subcultures in the 70s, or anyone with a broad interest in youth politics or the history of punk.

This cultural studies course is aimed at students interested in studying contemporary history at university.

It will also interest those involved in punk subcultures in the 70s, or anyone with a broad interest in youth politics or the history of punk.

• Reflect on the relationship between punk and the socio-economic and political context of the time.
• Explore the iconography and styles that portray 'punk'.
• Discuss the legacy of punk - is it altogether positive and progressive or a more complex mixture of good and bad?
• Apply punk's DIY ethos to create and publish a zine reflecting your own creativity and original thinking.
• Critique punk's influence on society both in the 70s and today through your own research.
• Engage with the diverse range of music, meanings and media associated with the punk movement.