Issue Details: First known date: 2017... 2017 Radical Roots in Fiji : The Impact of Colonialism on Don Dunstan
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AbstractHistoryArchive Description

'Abstract: SOUTH AUSTRALIA'S REPUTATION for progressive reform extends back to its origins in Edward Gibbon Wakefield's scheme for imperial systematic colonisation. Wakefield's grand plans, which inspired followers and shaped several colonies in Australasia, aimed to rid Australia of convict transportation and to assist respectable free settlers. While land policy would limit the expansion of the frontier and regulate class relationships, those who worked hard would be able to acquire land, and settlers would have a voice in the framing of their laws. Wakefield's scheme was born in the milieu of early nineteenth-century British philosophical radicalism. Jeremy Bentham died before South Australia was settled, but he was a keen supporter of its planning, and suggested that it be named to reflect its radical promise: 'Felicia', 'Felicitania' or 'Liberia'. Regardless of just how well the state has lived up to those early rosy hopes, its sense of reformist exceptionalism has been woven into its history. One of its most important political leaders, Don Dunstan, the democratic socialist and nationally influential premier from 1967-68 and 1970-79, self-consciously adopted this tradition by titling his 1981 political memoirs Felicia.' (Publication abstract)

Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of

  • Appears in:
    y separately published work icon Griffith Review State of Hope no. 55 2017 11091291 2017 periodical issue

    'As the industrial model that shaped twentieth-century South Australia is replaced by an uncertain future, now more than ever the state needs to draw on the strengths of its past in order to move ahead.

    'South Australia has always demonstrated a willingness to challenge prevailing sentiments, experiment, boldly innovate and take a national lead – and as a result has produced a disproportionate number of leaders in business, science, the arts and public policy.

    'Now, on the cusp of change, the state needs to draw on its talent for experiment and innovation in order to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. State of Hope explores the economic, social, environmental and cultural challenges facing South Australia, and the possibilities of renewal and revitalisation. It celebrates the unselfconscious willingness that hope enables.

    'State of Hope is co-edited by Julianne Schultz and Patrick Allington. ' (Publication summary)

    2017
    pg. 103-112
Last amended 28 Apr 2017 08:28:35
103-112 Radical Roots in Fiji : The Impact of Colonialism on Don Dunstansmall AustLit logo Griffith Review
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