The Australian Native-Born Type
The work explores the characteristics and potential of Australians born in the country, challenging the prevailing notion of their inferiority compared to their British counterparts. It begins by addressing the historical judgments made by colonial critics and European observers, who often viewed native Australians as a degenerated version of the British type. The author reflects on personal experiences and observations made over decades, questioning the validity of the "Cape" theory, which suggested that the Australian environment led to a decline in the quality of its inhabitants. The narrative emphasizes the success of Australian agriculture, particularly the merino sheep, which has thrived in the local climate and is considered superior to its imported counterparts. This success extends to other livestock, including horses and cattle, suggesting that the Australian environment can produce high-quality breeds without the need for foreign bloodlines. The author argues that the same principle applies to the people, asserting that Australians exhibit a range of physical and mental traits similar to those found in Britain. The text critiques the stereotype of Australians as lacking depth or thoroughness in their pursuits, asserting that they possess a diverse array of talents and capabilities. It highlights notable Australian figures in various fields, suggesting that the local population has the potential for intellectual and artistic excellence comparable to that of their British relatives. The author notes the diversity among Australians, emphasizing that they cannot be generalized into a single type, as they display a wide range of characteristics and abilities. The work concludes with a strong assertion that Australians, shaped by their unique environment and experiences, maintain the core qualities of their British ancestry. The author expresses confidence in the future development of a distinct Australian identity that retains the strengths of its heritage while adapting to the new land. The narrative ultimately champions the idea that the Australian-born population is not only equal to but may surpass their British forebears in various aspects, including physical prowess and intellectual achievement.
By Rolf Boldrewood · First published 1890 · Genre: Non-fiction, Cultural Criticism, Historical Analysis · 3,603 words
First lines
Numberless speculations, dogmatisms, and prophecies have found utterance, in and out of Australia, touching the characteristics and destiny of the Children of the Soil. Colonial critics sitting in judgment upon their own and other people's offspring have chiefly felt moved to deliver a verdict of inferiority to the sacred British type. Not noticeably diverse has been that of the untravelled European philosopher or social student. In nearly all cases, the mildest judgment indicated some degree of physical or mental differentiation; another term, for degeneration. If in the former greater height and length of limb were conceded, to be neutralised by lack of muscle and vitality. Worse again, if in the latter category a savage precocity and perceptive intelligence were admitted, it was rarely if ever supported by persistency, application, or broad mental grasp.
What this Textopian page supports
The Australian Native-Born Type is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rolf Boldrewood, dated 1890 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rolf Boldrewood
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Non-fiction, Cultural Criticism, Historical Analysis, Sociology, Ethnography
- Length: 3,603 words
- Structure: 1 section, 21 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Australian Native-Born Type by Rolf Boldrewood
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Non-fiction — The book presents a critical examination of the characteristics and development of the Australian native-born population, focusing on social and cultural themes.
- Cultural Criticism — It critiques colonial perceptions of Australian identity and explores the evolution of the Australian character in contrast to British norms.
- Historical Analysis — The text reflects on historical contexts and the development of Australian society, particularly in relation to its British heritage.
- Sociology — It analyzes social structures and the implications of identity within the Australian context, discussing the impact of environment on character.
Tags
Australian literature · 19th century · colonialism · identity · cultural heritage · social commentary · class struggle · immigration · settlement · bush life · rural Australia · character study