On
this history Tuesday I thought I would tell you a bit about the
history of Australia, we are going far far back in history.
The
first settlers are thought to have arrived around 50,000 years ago.
This would have most likely been at a time when the sea levels were
low, the land was more humid and animals larger.
Although
much of Australia became populated, the central dry areas didn't
attract settlers until around 25,000 years ago. The population grew
proportionately quicker around 10,000 years ago as the climate
improved.
At
the time of British settlement at Sydney Cove it is estimated that
300,000 aboriginal people, speaking around 250 languages inhabited
Australia.
On
arrival, finding no obvious political structure, the Europeans took
the land as their own. The Indigenous people were driven out of their
homes and many killed. Various new European diseases spread rapidly
amongst the indigenous people, killing many. The introduction of
feral and domestic animals contributed to the destruction of natural
habitats.
During
the early part of the 20th century legislation's were passed to
segregate and protect Aboriginals. This involved restrictions on
where they could live and work and families being broken up.
After
World War II, assimilation became the governments aim. All rights
were taken away from the Aboriginals and attempts made to
'Europeanise' them.
During
the 1960's the legislation was reviewed and the Federal Government
passed legislation for all Aboriginals to be given citizen status.
However, it wasn't until 1972 that the indigenous people were given
back limited rights to their own land. The situation has been
steadily improving for Australia's Indigenous people, although many
feel more needs to be done.
I
will speak more about our history in the weeks and months to come.
Interesting post Jo-Anne. It will help your readers to understand and know about Autralia...
ReplyDeleteThank you I hope so
DeleteI've followed at a distance the reforms for the Aboriginals. Wish we would have had the sense to do the same....
ReplyDeleteWe have come a long way but still have a ways to go
DeleteI'm afraid to admit I really know nothing of your country's history. I always learn something new when I visit your blog. Looking forward to more of this history.
ReplyDeleteThank you I will be doing more in the coming weeks/months
DeleteThere was a great show on ABC last night about Arthur Phillip
ReplyDeleteYes I wanted to see that but forgot and was annoyed with myself because I forgot
DeleteDearest Jo-Anne,
ReplyDeleteMany times it is a fact that we cannot be too proud of the history in certain areas. And that sadly so is still ongoing. Many people live in fear for their lives, religion or freedom.
Sending you hugs,
Mariette
So true we are making progress but still have areas we can improve
DeleteGood girl! You do a good and interesting job.
ReplyDeleteThank you
Delete