In 1915, Australian and New Zealand troops stormed the beaches of Gallipoli, and the ANZAC legend was born. By the end of the war, the ANZACs had distinguished themselves not just in Turkey, but in the trenches of the Western Front in Europe.

Beyond the well-known characters of the war such as Simpson and his donkey and the stellar leadership of Sir John Monash, the war prompted social change unlike anything before in Australia. Indigenous soldiers fought alongside other Australians, while the traditional roles and influence of women in Australia would never be the same.

In this elective, students will explore the common myths and legends of the ANZACs. They will expand their understanding of the global political influences that dragged Australia into the conflict and examine significant events and people of the war.

Students will also examine the changing social landscape of Australia for Indigenous Australians and for women and understand how the contributions of these people significantly enhanced Australia’s overall war effort. What were the lasting impacts of the war on all Australians and how has World War I influenced our lives today?