South Australia and Women Pioneers

This course explores the distinctiveness of South Australia as a colony that broke away from other Australian colonies in several ways. Focusing on its unique migrant population, diverse religious groups, and agricultural strength, South Australia was spared the disruptive gold rushes seen elsewhere. The course highlights radical political reforms from 1884 to the early 1890s, including pioneering women's movements and innovations like children's courts and compulsory arbitration. It also covers the societal barriers faced by women in education, professions, and public life, alongside their eventual rise in political and social reform movements. The course also addresses the development of public education systems, religious divisions between schools, and the important role women played in both religious and educational spheres. Themes include the evolving role of women in family life, church communities, and their contributions to public education and religious institutions. IN DEVELOPMENT: COURSE OVERVIEW ONLY