Try this activity to enhance your understanding of some of the issues confronting Australians on the homefront in World War II. Look at the The Homefront section of the online exhibition John Curtin, A man of peace, A time of war to find the information you need to answer these questions. You can compare your responses to the sample answers provided as you go.
1. In 1942 the difference between the AIF (Australian Imperial Force) and the CMF (Citizens Military Force) was very significant to Australia's defence planning. What was the difference between the two forces and why was it so significant?
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2. Do you think that it was really the threat of Japanese invasion that decided Curtin in favour of conscription for overseas service? Give reasons for your answer.
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3. These military recruitment posters for the navy and the airforce form part of the Homefront exhibition. What devices are used in the posters to encourage volunteers to join up?
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4. One of the photographs in the Homefront exhibition shows mothers marching against conscription. Why do you think mothers campaigned against conscription in World War II?
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5. This cartoon from the exhibition is entitled 'Your turn next' and was published in 1916.
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a. What countries are represented by each of the figures? Click on each figure to check your answer.. b. Do you think the cartoonist is for or against conscription? c. Explain the situation portrayed in the cartoon. |
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6. Another cartoon from this part of the exhibition is 'Such a simple question' published in 1917.
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a. Do you think the cartoonist is for or against conscription? b. Why does the cartoonist use a tree to represent the conscription debate? |
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7.Compare and contrast how Australia is portrayed in these two cartoons.
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8. Why did the Australian government introduce rationing of items such as food and clothing in World War II?
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9. List a few ways ordinary Australian citizens could help the war effort.
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10. One way that the government financed the war effort is mentioned in the exhibition. What was it?
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