Post by Tamrin on Apr 24, 2009 19:31:34 GMT 10
Throughout the nineteenth century, Australia developed a reputation as a working man's paradise. It was seen by many settlers as a place that was free of the social hierarchies of Britain, a place that offered employment and the means to a comfortable life for all.
This dream came to an abrupt end in the 1890s, when a deep and widespread economic depression affected the eastern colonies. For the first time, thousands were without work. For the few who were lucky enough to have a job, conditions were hard - long hours, little pay and dangerous circumstances.
People began to ask why there was so much human suffering and, for increasing numbers, the answer was greed on the part of the owners of industry. This led to the beginnings of the labour movement in Australia in an effort to enforce better working conditions as well as employment opportunities for the workers.
John Curtin's own experiences at this time reflected those of the majority of working Australians. In his case though, those experiences drove him to fight throughout his life for basic securities for all workers. This was a fight that strongly influenced the way he thought about Australia and the role of Federal Government.
This dream came to an abrupt end in the 1890s, when a deep and widespread economic depression affected the eastern colonies. For the first time, thousands were without work. For the few who were lucky enough to have a job, conditions were hard - long hours, little pay and dangerous circumstances.
People began to ask why there was so much human suffering and, for increasing numbers, the answer was greed on the part of the owners of industry. This led to the beginnings of the labour movement in Australia in an effort to enforce better working conditions as well as employment opportunities for the workers.
John Curtin's own experiences at this time reflected those of the majority of working Australians. In his case though, those experiences drove him to fight throughout his life for basic securities for all workers. This was a fight that strongly influenced the way he thought about Australia and the role of Federal Government.
