At the height of the imperial age scientific and religious ideas about racial differences were debated at the centre and the edges of empires. This unit examines both the theories of race that were formulated in this period and the ramifications of these ideas in the region known as Australasia: including Australia, New Guinea, Fiji and the New Hebrides. Specific topics include the Melanesian labour trade to Queensland, the conversion of Islanders to Christianity, the colonisation of the Pacific Islands and the defence and federation of the Australian colonies as the imperial powers of France and Germany sought Pacific empires. Students will develop a major research essay that... -- Course Website
Instructor: H Gardner
Prerequisites: At least one unit in history at level 2 in the History major, or equivalent; or with permission.
