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Remembrance Of Australia 's Participation

Decent Essays

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the Universal definition of ‘devastating’ is, ‘causing severe shock, distress or grief.’ World War One is the war that historians often describe as ‘devastating’. In a letter to Andrew Fisher, Keith Murdoch stated, “It is undoubtedly one of the most terrible chapters in our history”. The Great War, as it is commonly known, had a devastating effect on the Australian society, through the psychological torment that haunted the soldiers, nurses and civilians. A question prominent in the events leading up to the centenary of the landing at Gallipoli was, ‘Why should we commemorate the centenary of our participation in this conflict?’

Remembrance of Australia’s participation in World War One is necessary, so …show more content…

The Australian community emerged into the modern era, with women taking up the role of men in the workforce and Australia gaining cultural independence.

During this time Australia also gained independence and recognition through our achievements. Australia 's initial reaction to World War One was overwhelmingly positive. The nation was filled with enthusiasm as all pledged to fight alongside Britain. Many thought that Australia 's participation in the war would prove their worth to the ‘mother-country’. Andrew Fisher, the Australian opposition leader at the time, stated during an election speech in July 1914 that, “Australians will stand beside the mother country to help and defend her to our last man and our last shilling.” Australia gave Britain their word and carried out their duty as a recognisable army.

Australians should also commemorate Australia 's participation in the First World War because it reshaped our economic system. The Commonwealth of Australia was formed in 1901 and was still a young nation by the outbreak of war. Little more than a decade after Federation, new taxation laws were needed for the war. Federal income tax was then introduced in 1915 to fund Australia 's efforts and participation. Life proved difficult for the nation regarding resources and supplies. Resources were assigned to the war effort and necessities such as wool, wheat

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