The destruction of aboriginal society

Abstract

The Destruction of Aboriginal Society is the first of three volumes, on the general theme 'Aboriginal Policy and Practice', which are concerned with the history of interaction over the whole continent between black and white Australians from the time of settlement up to 1967. It is the first detailed study of its kind. This volume is concerned with the history and tragedy of interaction. Most white Australians today are unaware of the part the Aboriginal played in the history of settlement - even if he only stood to be shot, he influenced profoundly the kind of man who made a successful settler. The Aboriginal has been 'written out' of Australian history; the tragic significance of conflicts have long been bowdlerised and forgotten. Yet, even if vicariously, our guilt remains, as does our responsibility. Aboriginal attitudes take on a new dimension in the light of history, and no policies should be formulated except in that light. This book will stir the sleeping white Australian conscience.