History of Oceania

Did aboriginals fight in World War 1?

Yes, aboriginals did fight in World War 1. Although they did not serve in large numbers, there were a number of Aboriginal soldiers who enlisted and fought in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War I. These soldiers came from various Aboriginal communities across Australia and served in a variety of roles, including infantry, light horse, and medical corps. Some of the most notable Aboriginal soldiers of World War I include: * Lance Corporal William Onus, a Yorta Yorta man who served in the 2nd Australian Light Horse Regiment and was awarded the Military Medal for his actions at Gallipoli. * Private Leonard Mason, a Wiradjuri man who served in the 23rd Battalion and was killed in action at Fromelles in 1916. * Private David Unaipon, a Ngarrindjeri man who served in the 1st Australian Wireless Signal Squadron and was the first Aboriginal person to publish a book. In total, it is estimated that around 1,000 Aboriginal people served in the AIF during World War I. These soldiers made a significant contribution to the war effort and their service helped to challenge the prevailing stereotypes about the capabilities of Aboriginal people.