Historical Concepts
What is meant by the term secondary source?
A source created after the time being studied, using information from primary sources.
What event was the immediate spark that triggered World War I?
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914.
On what date do Australians commemorate ANZAC Day?
25 April.
In which region did the Kokoda Campaign take place?
Papua New Guinea.
What were the main reasons Australia became involved in major 20th-century wars?
Loyalty to Britain, alliance commitments, and defense of democracy and freedom.
What is meant by continuity and change in history?
The idea that over time, some things stay the same while others change.
What does the acronym MAIN stand for when explaining the causes of WWI?
Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, Nationalism.
What were the conditions like for soldiers at Gallipoli?
Hot, unsanitary, overcrowded trenches with disease, flies, and limited water.
Why was the Kokoda Campaign significant for Australia?
It stopped the Japanese advance toward Australia and became a symbol of national courage.
How did Australia’s relationship with Britain influence its participation in WWI and WWII?
Australia joined wars to support Britain as part of the Empire and saw it as its duty.
What does cause and effect mean when studying the past?
It explains the reasons why events occurred and the consequences that followed.
Which countries made up the Triple Entente?
Britain, France, and Russia.
What does the term ANZAC legend refer to?
The idea of bravery, mateship, and sacrifice shown by Australian soldiers during the Gallipoli Campaign.
What challenges did Australian soldiers face on the Kokoda Track?
Jungle terrain, disease, heavy rain, steep slopes, and limited supplies.
In what ways did Australians contribute to the war effort at home?
Through rationing, working in factories, growing food, buying war bonds, and volunteering.
How do historians decide what is historically significant?
By determining the importance or lasting impact of people, events, or developments.
Why did Australia enter World War I?
To support Britain as part of the British Empire.
How did the Gallipoli Campaign shape Australia’s national identity?
It created pride and a sense of unity, showing courage and resilience despite failure.
What was the purpose of propaganda in Australia during WWII?
To persuade people to enlist, support the war effort, and sacrifice at home.
How did Australian soldiers’ experiences differ between Gallipoli and Kokoda?
Gallipoli had trench warfare in heat and disease; Kokoda had jungle warfare and harsh terrain.
What does empathetic understanding involve when examining people in the past?
Imagining how people in the past might have thought, felt, and experienced events.
Explain how one of the MAIN causes contributed to the outbreak of WWI.
Example: Militarism — nations built up armies and weapons, increasing tension and competition leading to war.
What roles did women perform on the home front during WWI?
Worked as nurses, in munitions factories, fundraising, and supporting soldiers through voluntary work.
Why was rationing introduced in Australia during the Second World War?
To ensure fair distribution of scarce goods and support the war effort.
How did war shape Australia’s national identity and international reputation?
It strengthened national pride, independence, and recognition of Australia’s bravery and contribution to global conflicts.