A study of the history of Indigenous Australians since European contact. We consider the ways in which understandings of this history have changed over time, in response both to a changing political climate and the impact of Indigenous perspectives on historical writing. Topics include: first contact; processes of invasion, dispossession, and settlement; labour and gender relations; changes to government policy; and the struggle for Indigenous rights. There will be special attention to the dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians through various cultural forms such as writing, visual arts and film, and through public protest and political action.

1000 word critical review (15%), 3000 word essay (45%), take-home exam (30%), and tutorial participation (10%). 

A two-hour lecture/video screening session per week, plus one tutorial per week. Lectures will be recorded and available on WebCT.

Students can expect to undertake an additional six hours of study each week preparing for the tutorials and assessments.

First-year courses in History to the value of twelve units, courses in Indigenous Studies to the value of six units, or with permission of the Convener.

HIST2022 Aboriginal Australian History

Reynolds, H. Why weren't we told?: a personal search for the truth about our history, 1999.