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Period: to
Federation
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24th October 1889
Sir Henry Parkes, Premier of New South Wales, calls on the colonies to Federate. He made a speech at Tenterfield in favour of Federation. -
14 Feb 1890
Parks made a famous speech where he said ‘The crimson thread of kinship runs through us all’. -
1891-1894
In this time-period, colonial parliaments lose interest in federation because of economic depression -
March and April 1891
The first constitutional convention was held and Henry Parks said “one people one destiny”. The draft constitution was adopted on the 9th of April. -
1892
15 Fedaration leagues were formed. -
29 Jan 1895
Hobart Premier's Conference. Agreement to hold a new Federation convention. -
1897-1898
The second national Australian convention was held and agreed to the constitution to go to the referendum.
In 1898 votes were held in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, all the states except New South Wales agreed. -
April and July 1899
The proposed constitution was slightly changed and then between April and July votes were held in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania with most people saying "yes" to the new constitution. In September Queensland also agrees. -
5 July 1900
Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act is approved by British parliament. -
1 Jan 1901
Commonwealth of Australia begins. -
20 March 1901
First federal election, woman can vote. -
9 May 1901
The Duke of Cornwall and York opens the first Parliament.
