Question

Difficulty: MediumThe 1960s: The Swinging Sixties and New Laws

The 1960s in Britain, famous for the 'Swinging Sixties' and the international success of bands like The Rolling Stones, was also a time of significant 'social revolution' in the law. Which of these reforms was introduced during this decade?

  1. The decriminalisation of homosexual acts between men aged 21 and overAnswer
  2. B
    The United Kingdom's formal entry into the European Economic Community
  3. C
    The first arrival of the 'Empire Windrush' from the West Indies
  4. D
    The granting of equal voting rights to all men and women over the age of 21

Answer

The decriminalisation of homosexual acts between men aged 21 and over
The correct answer is correct because the Sexual Offences Act was passed in 1967, decriminalising homosexual acts for men over 21 in England and Wales. This was a central part of the 'social revolution' of the 1960s alongside other reforms like the legalisation of abortion and the abolition of the death penalty.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the historical context of the 1960s
The 1960s is known as the 'Swinging Sixties' and a period of 'social revolution.'
This sets the timeframe for searching for relevant legislation.
2
Recall major legislative changes from the late 1960s
Key acts include the Abortion Act 1967, the Sexual Offences Act 1967, and the Murder Act 1965.
These laws define the social liberalisation of the era.
3
Evaluate and eliminate incorrect options based on their actual dates
The EEC entry (1973), Windrush arrival (1948), and equal voting rights (1928) fall outside the 1960s.
Chronological accuracy is required to distinguish between different post-war eras.

Key Concept

The Social Revolution and Legislative Reform of the 1960s
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question