A LEVEL HISTORY A: Actual June 2025 PAST PAPER 1: Philip II 1556–1598. All Assessment
Questions & Mark Scheme [OCR Y208/01]
Exam Resource Summary
The A Level History A June 2025 Philip II 1556–1598 Paper (OCR Y208/01) integrates the full official
examination paper with its detailed mark scheme to create a focused and comprehensive revision
resource. This paper assesses students’ understanding of the political, religious, and administrative
challenges faced by Philip II, as well as his domestic policies, foreign affairs, and the wider European
context of his reign. Candidates are required to analyse primary and secondary sources, evaluate differing
historical interpretations, and construct coherent, evidence-based arguments. By presenting each question
alongside its marking criteria, the resource offers clear guidance on examiner expectations, analytical
depth, and the structured responses needed for higher-band marks. This integrated format supports
targeted revision, strengthens source evaluation and essay-writing skills, and equips students for success
in the May/June 2026 OCR A Level History A Philip II 1556–1598 examination.
OCR is an exempt Charity
Turn over
, 2
Answer Question 1 or Question 2.
1
(a) Which of the following was the greater problem for Philip II?
(i) Relations with the Papacy
(ii) Moriscos
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* ‘The military ability of leaders was the most important factor in determining the outcomes of revolt
in the Netherlands during the reign of Philip II.’
How far do you agree? [20]
2
(a) Which of the following were the greater challenge to the government of Spain during the reign of
Philip II?
(i) Law and order
(ii) Finances and the economy
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* ‘The victory at Lepanto (1571) was Philip II’s greatest foreign policy achievement.’
How far do you agree? [20]
END OF QUESTION PAPER
© OCR 2025 Y208/01 Jun25
, GCE
History A
Y208/01: Non-British period study: Philip II 1556-1598
A Level
Mark Scheme for June 2025
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations
Questions & Mark Scheme [OCR Y208/01]
Exam Resource Summary
The A Level History A June 2025 Philip II 1556–1598 Paper (OCR Y208/01) integrates the full official
examination paper with its detailed mark scheme to create a focused and comprehensive revision
resource. This paper assesses students’ understanding of the political, religious, and administrative
challenges faced by Philip II, as well as his domestic policies, foreign affairs, and the wider European
context of his reign. Candidates are required to analyse primary and secondary sources, evaluate differing
historical interpretations, and construct coherent, evidence-based arguments. By presenting each question
alongside its marking criteria, the resource offers clear guidance on examiner expectations, analytical
depth, and the structured responses needed for higher-band marks. This integrated format supports
targeted revision, strengthens source evaluation and essay-writing skills, and equips students for success
in the May/June 2026 OCR A Level History A Philip II 1556–1598 examination.
OCR is an exempt Charity
Turn over
, 2
Answer Question 1 or Question 2.
1
(a) Which of the following was the greater problem for Philip II?
(i) Relations with the Papacy
(ii) Moriscos
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* ‘The military ability of leaders was the most important factor in determining the outcomes of revolt
in the Netherlands during the reign of Philip II.’
How far do you agree? [20]
2
(a) Which of the following were the greater challenge to the government of Spain during the reign of
Philip II?
(i) Law and order
(ii) Finances and the economy
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* ‘The victory at Lepanto (1571) was Philip II’s greatest foreign policy achievement.’
How far do you agree? [20]
END OF QUESTION PAPER
© OCR 2025 Y208/01 Jun25
, GCE
History A
Y208/01: Non-British period study: Philip II 1556-1598
A Level
Mark Scheme for June 2025
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations
