Yr 10 History Ass 1 | Part 7

Introduction: During World War I and World War II, the Australian government implemented various controls on the home front to ensure the war effort was sustained. This essay will explore three government controls that were implemented during both wars, namely enemy aliens, manpower controls, and rationing. Additionally, this essay will compare and contrast the use of censorship and government propaganda during these two wars.

PEEL Paragraph 1: Point: The Australian government's control on enemy aliens during World War I and World War II. Evidence: During both wars, the Australian government enforced strict laws on enemy aliens, primarily Germans and Italians, residing in Australia. In World War I, the War Precautions Act of 1914 gave the government the power to intern enemy aliens. Similarly, during World War II, the National Security Act of 1939 allowed the government to intern enemy aliens and confiscate their property. Historical quotes, such as "Those who are not with us are against us" by Prime Minister Robert Menzies, showcase the government's hostile attitude towards enemy aliens during both wars. Explain: The government saw enemy aliens as a potential threat to national security, and thus, implemented strict laws to ensure their control. The internment of enemy aliens during both wars helped in maintaining social cohesion and preventing any acts of espionage or sabotage. Furthermore, the government's harsh treatment towards enemy aliens was fuelled by anti-German and anti-Italian sentiment, which was widespread in the Australian society during both wars. Link: The control of enemy aliens was a significant aspect of the Australian government's strategy during both wars. It demonstrates how the government used its power to protect national security and prevent any potential threats from enemy aliens residing in Australia.

PEEL Paragraph 2: Point: The Australian government's control on manpower during World War I and World War II. Evidence: During both wars, the Australian government imposed various controls on the recruitment and mobilization of manpower. In World War I, the government introduced the Commonwealth Military Service Act of 1916, which enforced compulsory military service for all eligible men. Similarly, during World War II, the National Security Act of 1939 gave the government the power to conscript men aged 18 to 35 years. Additionally, the government implemented various measures to ensure the efficient allocation of labor, such as the Women's Employment Board, which encouraged women to work in industries that were vital to the war effort. Explain: The government's control on manpower was essential to ensure that the military had sufficient resources to fight the war. Compulsory military service and conscription allowed the government to mobilize a significant number of men, which was necessary to sustain the war effort. Additionally, the government's emphasis on women's employment during World War II was crucial in filling the labor shortage caused by the conscription of men. Link: The control on manpower was a crucial aspect of the Australian government's strategy during both wars. It showcases how the government used its power to mobilize resources and ensure the efficient allocation of labor to support the war effort.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the Australian government's control on the home front during World War I and World War II was crucial in ensuring the success of the war effort. The controls on enemy aliens, manpower, and rationing were essential in mobilizing resources and maintaining social cohesion. Furthermore, the use of censorship and government propaganda during both wars highlights the government's efforts to shape public opinion and maintain support for the war effort. Overall, the Australian government's control on the home front during both wars showcases the government's ability to use its power to achieve its strategic objectives.