Australian nationalism

Flag of Australia

Australian nationalism is the ideology, movement and sentiment that emphasizes the identity, culture, and interests of Australia as a nation-state, asserting the identity of Australians as a distinct nation, regardless of its previously derivative and colonial status.[1][2] It encompasses a range of beliefs and values that are often rooted in Australia's history, geography, and socio-political context.[3] Key elements of Australian nationalism include a sense of national pride, attachment to Australian symbols such as the flag and national anthem, and a focus on promoting Australia's sovereignty and independence.[4]

Historically, Australian nationalism emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Australia moved towards federation and gained independence from British colonial rule,[2][5] developing itself in three pivotal historical traditions: the labour movement, the republican movement and nativism.[6] It was shaped by factors such as the experiences of early settlers and the desire for a distinct Australian identity separate from British influence.[2][7]

History

Main article: History of Australia

Pre-Federation

See also: Currency lads and lasses

By the early 19th century, Australia was governed as a series of six largely self-governing colonies that were spread across the continent and were part of the British Empire.[8] The name Australia was popularised by explorer Matthew Flinders and first used officially by Governor Macquarie.[9] Attempts to coordinate governance had failed in the 1860s due to a lack of popular support and lack of interest from the British government, but by the 1880s, and with the rise of nationalist movements in Europe, the efforts to establish a federation of the Australian colonies began to gather momentum. The British government supported federation as a means to cement British influence in the South Pacific.[10]

Figures like William Wentworth, John Dunmore Lang and Banjo Patterson championed Australian identity during the colonial era.

Post-Federation

Nationalistic sentiments increased as a result of Australia's participation in the First and Second World Wars, with concepts such as "mateship" becoming a cornerstone of Australian nationalism.[11]

See also

Flags

Flags used by Australian Nationalists

References

Footnotes

  1. ^ Knight 1995, p. 3: "Australian Nationalists assert that Australia is also a Nation regardless of our previously derivative and colonial status. The Australia Nation by its actions, creations, and expressions carries an Idea."
  2. ^ a b c "Nationalism in Australia". Archived from the original on 1 September 2016. Retrieved 11 March 2016.
  3. ^ "Surrendering nationalism". Griffith Review. Retrieved 11 March 2016.
  4. ^ Christopher Scanlon (25 January 2014). "Australia Day: is nationalism really so bad?". The Conversation. Retrieved 11 March 2016.
  5. ^ Hirst 2009.
  6. ^ Saleam 2000.
  7. ^ Pascale 2022.
  8. ^ Crisp 1949.
  9. ^ "Who Named Australia?". The Mail (Adelaide, South Australia). Adelaide: National Library of Australia. 11 February 1928. p. 16. Archived from the original on 17 April 2021. Retrieved 15 August 2024.
  10. ^ Trainor 1994, p. 3-4.
  11. ^ Trainor 1994, p. 4.

Sources