Conscription World War One

What is conscription? This is the forced enlistment of men into the

armed forces. It is also the right to send these men

overseas.

Why was it needed? After people began to hear about the

horrors of the War, especially in Europe, they did not want to enlist in the army.

In July 1916, there were 23 000 Australian casualties in one battle at Poizièrs in France.

Who tried to introduce it? Prime Minister Billy Hughes travelled to

France in 1916 to visit the ANZAC troops. He said that 32 000 more men were

needed. He was a member of the Labor Party and

they did not support conscription.

How did he try to introduce it? He held a referendum on this issue. This is a national vote everyone in Australia

has to vote on a question. They have to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’. It is successful if there is a double

majority. This means that the majority of people in

the majority of States have to vote ‘yes’.

Arguments FOR….. Patriotism Need to support the men in the trenches Otherwise you were supporting the enemy. The country might be taken over by

Germany.

Arguments against…. Led by Archbishop Mannix. More men would make very little difference. Men were needed at home to work in

factories and on farms to feed the nation. The war was not Australia’s concern.

The people vote… In October 1916, the people voted ‘NO’. In December 1917, the people voted ‘NO’.

How effective are these posters in convincing people to sway for or against Conscription? Analyse.

Conscription badge http://dl.screenaustralia.gov.au/module/1175/

Answer the questions after you watch the segment.