Introduction
More Australians have European origins than any other continent in the world. Europe is full of very different cultures, each with unique beliefs, values and practices. Since Australia was colonised in 1788, thousands of Europeans have settled here every year from all over Europe. Each of these
immigrants bring with them parts of their own culture including religions, traditions, celebrations, food and drinks, family values and languages. Click here to download a blank map of Europe.
Label the countries. |
History
Before Australia was colonised, European countries like France, Spain, England and Holland sent explorers all over the world looking for new land. Australia was one of the last
countries to be colonised when Captain Arthur Phillip claimed Australia for Britain on the 26th January, 1788. Since then most immigrants to Australia have been from Great Britain, but
many have also come from all over Europe from places like Italy, Greece, Germany and Macedonia.
countries to be colonised when Captain Arthur Phillip claimed Australia for Britain on the 26th January, 1788. Since then most immigrants to Australia have been from Great Britain, but
many have also come from all over Europe from places like Italy, Greece, Germany and Macedonia.
Beliefs
Europeans came to Australia with beliefs and religions that were different to those of the Aboriginal people. Most of the early settlers were Christians who believed that the world and everything in it was created by God for humans, and that God sent his son, Jesus Christ, to Earth. Europeans also brought with them modern science, which looks for natural reasons why things happen and how things are created.
Values
The European settlers brought with them the idea of
democracy. In a democracy, everyone gets to vote on laws that are written. When Australia became a country in 1901, a democratic government was set up and the people of Australia got to vote on who would be their Prime Minister. Not everyone got to vote however, women were not allowed to vote until 1908 and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were not allowed to vote until 1962. |
Activities
Brainstorm
What is happening in this picture?
Why are there no houses or buildings?
What flag is that? Why are they putting it up?
Why are there no houses or buildings?
What flag is that? Why are they putting it up?
Culture Charts
Using your A3 chart from before and, using the internet and your library, find as many beliefs, values and practices as you can for European Australians.