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65,000 BCE
Arrival of Alboriginals
The Australian Aboriginals were the first inhabitants of the continent. They arrived from Southeast Asia and developed a rich culture based on their connection to the land -
European Exploration
Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon was the first European to sight the Australian coast in 1606, marking the beginning of European interest in the region. -
First British Settlement
In January 1788, the First British Fleet arrived at Botany Bay (later Port Jackson, Sydney), establishing a penal colony and marking the start of European colonization in Australia. -
Foundation of Australian States
During the 19th century, several British colonies were founded in Australia: New South Wales (1788), Tasmania (1825), South Australia (1836), Victoria (1851), Queensland (1859), and Western Australia (1829). -
The Gold Rush
The discovery of gold in New South Wales and Victoria triggered a massive migration to Australia, attracting people from all over the world, primarily from China and Europe. The country's population and economy grew rapidly. -
Federation of Australia
On January 1, 1901, the six British colonies in Australia united to form the Commonwealth of Australia, a federal state with a central government based on the British model. -
World War I
Australia played an active role in World War I. The Battle of Gallipoli in 1915 was a significant event that, despite being a defeat, forged Australia's national identity. ANZAC Day is celebrated annually in honor of the fallen soldiers. -
Immigration Restriction Act
Also known as the "White Australia Policy," this series of laws was designed to restrict the immigration of non-white people, especially from Asia. It was gradually dismantled in the decades following World War II. -
Referendum
In a historic referendum, Australians overwhelmingly voted to include Aboriginals in the national census and allow the federal government to legislate on their behalf, an important step towards Indigenous civil rights. -
End of the White Australia Policy
The White Australia Policy, which restricted the immigration of non-Europeans, was finally dismantled in the 1970s. This paved the way for greater ethnic and cultural diversity in the country.