Australian History
Modern Australian history began in 1788 with the arrival of the First Fleet, marking the start of British colonization. This led to profound changes for Indigenous peoples, whose cultures date back tens of thousands of years. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Australia developed economically and politically, becoming a federation in 1901. Australia participated in both World Wars, influencing its national identity. Post-war immigration bolstered cultural diversity. In recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of Indigenous rights and history, shaping contemporary Australia’s social and political landscape as it engages with global issues while grappling with its colonial past.
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Australian history begins with Indigenous peoples, who have lived on the continent for over 65,000 years with rich cultures and traditions. In 1770, Captain Cook claimed the east coast for Britain, leading to British colonization in 1788. This colonization significantly impacted Indigenous communities. The discovery of gold in the 1850s spurred migration and economic growth. Australia became a federation in 1901, uniting the colonies into the Commonwealth. The nation has since evolved through significant events, including two World Wars, civil rights movements, and ongoing reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Australians, shaping its diverse and multicultural society today.