Australian National Identity 1888 - 1914 A Research Report

INTRODUCTIONDue to this nation?s relatively short history, certain aspects of what it deputation to be ?Australian? remain unclear to this day. The concept of an independent Australia, rather than a colonial outpost of Britain or a collection of six individual colonies, gradually took shape in the 1880s and 90s, and gained popularity in the years after 1901. By 1914 a distinct sense of national identity had begun to emerge and be adopted by both Australians and their politicians. The hopes and fears unique to this period struggle an important part in shaping its distinctive policy-making system and national identity. Factors such as the fear of invasion, duration from Britain, the influx of foreign immigrants and the hopes of democracy and fairness all served to inwardness Australia?s national consciousness. One idea important to this maculation was the use of politics to effect change and realise Australian identity. Another was the unifying movers of English language, similar ethnic backgrounds, mate moral and legal codes, Christian religion, a shared cultivation based loosely upon British society, and the prevalent experiences of living in a rough and developing nation. Out of this foundation of common ground grew an idea of nationhood that was White, Democratic and Egalitarian.

Not everyone held these beliefs in common, as Tim Gurry says: ?There has never been a period in Australia?s history where the whole population has shared a clannish common national consciousness.?[1] However, the sense of a White and democratic Australia was widespread and, while perhaps being m ore switch off and fragmented than clarifi! ed, was certainly unique and distinctive. WHITE AUSTRALIARacism was a pontifical component of Australia?s collective identity, and a contributing promoter to its growth during the years 1888 to 1914. Thompson contends that ??the racialist beliefs of white Australians were widely and deep held, and were, moreover, held... If you want to get a full essay, order it on our website: BestEssayCheap.com

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