Historical Events tagged with "canberra"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Governor-General Dismisses Whitlam Government

November 11th, 1975 49 years ago

Sir John Kerr, the Australian Governor-General, dismissed Prime Minister Gough Whitlam's government, leading to a political crisis. Following the dismissal, Kerr appointed Malcolm Fraser as caretaker Prime Minister and announced a general election to take place in early December. This unprecedented constitutional action set off nationwide debates about the powers of the Governor-General and the nature of Australian democracy during a time of political tumult.

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Politics & Government

John Gorton Resigns as PM and Liberal Leader

March 10th, 1971 54 years ago

John Gorton resigned as Prime Minister of Australia and leader of the Liberal Party after facing a vote of confidence. The secret ballot resulted in William McMahon being chosen as his successor. Gorton’s leadership had faced significant challenges, and the vote indicated a lack of support from his party members, leading to a significant reshuffle in Australian politics.

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Politics & Government

Royal Assent to Statute of Westminster Adoption Act

October 9th, 1942 82 years ago

The Statute of Westminster Adoption Act 1942 received royal assent, officially granting Australia greater legislative independence from the United Kingdom. This significant legal change was a response to Australia's evolving needs during World War II, allowing for more autonomous governance. The act was passed by the Australian Parliament in Canberra and marked a crucial step in Australia's constitutional development.

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Politics & Government

Robert Menzies Elected Leader of UAP

April 18th, 1939 85 years ago

Robert Menzies was elected as the leader of the United Australia Party following the death of Prime Minister Joseph Lyons. This election marked a significant change in the party's direction, as Menzies was set to lead during a challenging period in Australia’s political landscape. His leadership would later reshape the political scene and set the foundation for future governance.

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Politics & Government

Isaac Isaacs Becomes Australia's First Born Governor-General

January 21st, 1931 94 years ago

Sir Isaac Isaacs was sworn in as the first Australian-born Governor-General of Australia, marking a significant milestone in the nation's history. The ceremony took place in Canberra, where he took the oath of allegiance in the presence of Prime Minister James Scullin and other dignitaries. Isaacs succeeded the Earl of Gowrie, signaling a shift towards Australian leadership in this high office. His appointment was seen as a reflection of Australia’s growing national identity and aspirations for greater autonomy within the British Empire.

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Politics & Government

Official Opening of Old Parliament House

May 9th, 1927 97 years ago

The Old Parliament House in Canberra was officially opened to house Australia's Parliament. The inauguration was attended by significant dignitaries, including Prime Minister Stanley Bruce. This building was designed to accommodate the growing political needs of the nation, symbolizing the maturation of Australia’s parliamentary democracy. Its architectural design reflects the values of the era, making it an important piece of Australia's political heritage.

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Politics & Government

Andrew Fisher Begins Third Term as Prime Minister

September 17th, 1914 110 years ago

Andrew Fisher was sworn in for his third term as Prime Minister of Australia, succeeding Joseph Cook, amidst heightened tensions due to World War I. Fisher's return to leadership came at a critical time when Australia was beginning to engage in the conflict. He focused on a war effort that involved mobilizing resources and supporting the British Empire. His government sought to unite Australians behind the war effort, emphasizing loyalty and patriotism.

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Politics & Government

Canberra Named as Australia's Future Capital

March 12th, 1913 112 years ago

On this day, the city of Canberra was officially named the capital of Australia. The momentous occasion was marked by a ceremony attended by dignitaries and officials at the site of the future capital. Chosen for its strategic location between Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra was designed specifically for this purpose, representing a new chapter for the nation.

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Politics & Government

King O'Malley Marks Canberra's Construction Start

February 20th, 1913 112 years ago

King O'Malley, the then Minister for Home Affairs, drove in the first survey peg to initiate the construction of Canberra, Australia’s capital city. This act symbolized the formal commencement of urban planning and development in a region chosen for its strategic importance, blending natural beauty with political necessity. The event underscored the Australian government's commitment to creating a national capital that reflected the new nation's aspirations and identity.

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