White Gain vs. Indigenous Loss
August 4th 2009 04:21
It could be argued that Aboriginal disadvantage began when tribesmen first laid eyes on the British invaders in 1788. Developments took a decided turn for the worst however when colonists began to usurp tribal lands for the purposes of grazing and agriculture. By the 1870s with superior weaponry and government sanction, white settlers forced Aboriginals from their traditional lands and hunting grounds. What started out as subjugation with little or no conciliation (Pearson, 1984, p.48), soon turned into decimation. With decreasing food supplies and the spread of disease, Aborigines had little choice but to accept help from the white man and his government—invader now misguided saviour. This in turn led to a century of disastrous welfare protectionist policy, with many indigenous tribes herded onto reserves, and in some cases their children taken (the ‘Stolen Generation’). Robbed of their humanity and their identity it was a slow form of genocide. Dispossession complete, the invaders settled on Aboriginal land comforted by the false notions of Terra Nullius, and all had been done (Broome, 2001, pp.26-56).
This essay will examine important elements in historical and contemporary developments of Aboriginal disadvantage, compared to non-aboriginal advantage. The examination will inevitably lead to a relevant contemporary question: will Reconciliation right the balance, or will it be stymied by ingrained racist attitudes and the behemoth of federalism?
There can be little doubt that the greatest form of Indigenous disadvantage was the loss of tribal lands. Not only were the people robbed of their independence and the ability to sustain life, but their spirituality as well. Aborigines believe that ancestral beings inhabit their particular tribal territory and are responsible for generating life. Sacred sites exist where great events took place, sacred objects were hidden, and initiation ceremonies and burials performed (Broome, 2001, p18). Hence, the very fabric and structure of pre-invasion Aboriginal society was inextricably linked to the land.
Initially, colonial government was not aware of the fundamental link Indigenous populations had with their land, as it would be another 150 or so years before Aboriginal society is the focus of academic study. Would it have made any difference? Based on historical precedent probably not, the Native American Indians suffered a similar fate, as did other indigenous populations of the former British Empire: subjugation; rare conciliation. (Cont.)
There can be little doubt that the greatest form of Indigenous disadvantage was the loss of tribal lands. Not only were the people robbed of their independence and the ability to sustain life, but their spirituality as well. Aborigines believe that ancestral beings inhabit their particular tribal territory and are responsible for generating life. Sacred sites exist where great events took place, sacred objects were hidden, and initiation ceremonies and burials performed (Broome, 2001, p18). Hence, the very fabric and structure of pre-invasion Aboriginal society was inextricably linked to the land.
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