Hi beautiful people!
I'm working on an assignment talking about Australia's changing national identity in the EYES OF THE WORLD. I need to look at a particular event and or events as a way to highlight this change.
The problem is that I was thinking the assignment related to internal rather than international identity and have therefore gone of on a rather wierd tangent. Are there any really pivotal events that you know of that changed Australia's international identity?
Preferably something to do with the Great Depression as I have already undertaken a substantial amount of research in this area.
Thanks a heap
Em
As I skimmed this article, a few thoughts hit me. First was the 300,000 Brits who immigrated to Australia. Exports also added to the country's international identity. The advent of planes that could cross the ocean also has helped.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Australia#Inter-war_years
Hi Em! It's great to see your enthusiasm for your assignment on Australia's changing national identity. While there are various events that have influenced Australia's international identity, one significant event related to the Great Depression is the Sydney Harbour Bridge opening in 1932.
The construction and completion of the Sydney Harbour Bridge symbolized Australia's ability to undertake ambitious infrastructure projects during economically challenging times. Despite the Great Depression, Australia's successful completion of such a large-scale and iconic structure demonstrated the country's resilience and determination.
To further explore the impact of the Sydney Harbour Bridge opening on Australia's international identity, you can consider the following steps:
1. Research and gather information: Look for reliable sources such as historical books, academic articles, and reputable online resources that delve into the Sydney Harbour Bridge's construction and its broader impact on Australia's international perception during the Great Depression.
2. Analyze the significance: Examine how the completion of the Sydney Harbour Bridge contributed to Australia's international visibility and reputation. Consider factors such as the bridge's architectural design, engineering prowess, and construction techniques that attracted attention from around the world.
3. Survey international response: Investigate how the international community reacted to the Sydney Harbour Bridge's opening. Look for accounts, articles, or commentary from foreign media outlets or figures at that time that highlight their perspective on Australia's accomplishment. This can provide insights into how the event reshaped Australia's international identity.
4. Compare before and after: Contrast Australia's international perception before and after the Sydney Harbour Bridge's opening. Did it lead to increased trade, tourism, or diplomatic relations? Did it mark a shift in how other nations viewed Australia's capabilities or national character?
5. Consider broader implications: Reflect on the broader historical context of the Great Depression and how the Sydney Harbour Bridge's completion may have influenced Australia's international identity within that context. Explore connections with themes such as nationalism, economic resilience, or national unity.
By following these steps, you should be able to examine the Sydney Harbour Bridge opening and its impact on Australia's international identity during the Great Depression more thoroughly. Good luck with your assignment!