History
A History of the Eureka Rebellion
After many land wars by Aboriginal nations against British colonialism, the battle at the Eureka Stockade was fought on 3rd December 1854. It became the most significant class conflict in the colonial history of Victoria. It remains the major armed rebellion in the History of Settler Australia. The Eureka rebellion and Southern Cross flag have become powerful symbols of a major turning point in Australian politics.
Eureka was the climax of civil disobedience in the Ballarat region. During the gold rush era, the diggers objected to very expensive mining items and Miner's License, taxation (via the license) without representation and the repressive actions of the government through its police and military. On the other hand, the merchants and pastoralists (squatters), in conjunction with their parliamentary representatives overwhelmingly controlled the Victorian Legislative Council. They were intent on tax avoidance themselves.
The rebelliousness of the miners in Ballarat grew from The Ballarat Reform League movement and concluded with an organised battle at the Eureka Stockade against the colonial forces.
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"WE SWEAR BY THE SOUTHERN CROSS TO STAND TRULY BY EACH OTHER AND FIGHT TO DEFEND OUR RIGHTS AND LIBERTIES."
FOR A JUST, SOVEREIGN AND DEMOCRATIC AUSTRALIA.
The Spirit of Eureka Committee was established in the lead up to the 150th anniversary of the Eureka Stockade in 2004, to give a strong and united voice to the current struggles of Australia’s working people.
The Spirit of Eureka draws on the continuity and relevance of this important event in the history of Australia to present day endeavours and struggles for justice, democracy and sovereignty.
The Eureka rebellion laid the foundations for Australia’s continuing social, industrial and political struggles. It was advanced for its time and represents an important fighting tradition that continues to inspire our fight today.