Module 1 Notes: Evidence and Context in Australian History

Evidence and Context

History requires reading and analysing texts written and published at different times. In settler-colonial societies like Australia, it is essential to acknowledge that many versions of the past exist. All sources matter but need critical analysis; we will discuss the value and limitations of texts, images and films, including the propaganda efforts organised by governments to mobilise the population and secure Australian support for the war effort during World War I and World War II. In this module, you will have the opportunity to analyse some primary sources and reflect on how they inform contemporary values.

Evidence and Context as Detective Work

Evidence and context are two essential concepts in history. Historians do detective work by gathering different kinds of evidence (primary and secondary sources) and by developing a solid understanding of the context—what was happening at the time, and what historians have written about the event or period.

Federation and the 20th Century

The 20^{\text{th}} century started with Federation in Australia. Historian Anna Clark notes that when she interviewed on this topic, high school students around the country groaned when asked about it. We will demonstrate in this module how understanding Federation can help us empathise with the hopes and fears people felt about their place in the new century.

Module Goals and Skills

This module will develop the ability to analyse primary sources and reflect on how they can inform us about contemporary values. It will also discuss the value and limitations of texts, images and films, and practice critical evaluation as a core history skill throughout the semester.