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Cause and Consequence: The Case of Derek Bentley

History
GCSE / Grade 8
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores the causes and consequences of Derek Bentley's case, encouraging students to analyse historical factors and their impact.

Topics covered:

#History
#History
#Modern Crime
#Standard
#Cause and Consequence
#Derek Bentley
#Explain the social and legal context of Derek Bentley's case
#Compare different perspectives on Bentley's conviction
#Analyse the causes that led to Bentley's execution
#Outline the consequences of the case for criminal justice reform

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Full preview • 7 questions

Cause and Consequence: The Case of Derek Bentley

Subject: HistoryGrade: GCSE / Grade 8
Name:
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Case of Derek Bentley

Source A: Historical overview of Derek Bentley's case

'Derek Bentley was a young man convicted of murder in 1953 after the death of a police officer during a robbery. His case became controversial due to questions about his mental capacity and the circumstances of his involvement.' Provenance: Historical summary from a GCSE textbook, 2010.

1.
Outline the main events of Derek Bentley's case. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Explain why Bentley's mental capacity was significant in his trial. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Causes of the Case and Its Impact

Source B: Public opinion and legal debates

'Many believed Bentley’s execution was unjust due to his mental state, leading to protests and calls for legal reform.' Provenance: Newspaper article, 1954.

1.
Compare the views of the prosecution and public opinion regarding Bentley's case. (5 marks)
[5 marks]
2.
Analyse the consequences of Bentley's case for the criminal justice system. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Historical Perspectives

Source C: Historian's view

'The case of Derek Bentley exemplifies the flaws in the justice system of the 1950s, especially regarding mental health and capital punishment.' Provenance: Academic article, 2005.

1.
Explain how the historian views the justice system in relation to Bentley's case. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the views of the historian with public opinion at the time. (5 marks)
[5 marks]
D

Concluding Reflection

Source D: Modern view on the case

'Derek Bentley's case remains a powerful example of the importance of fairness and compassion in justice.' Provenance: Modern legal commentary, 2018.

1.
Write a brief conclusion about the significance of Bentley's case today. (3 marks)
[3 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet
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