Resource: Burke and Wills

Description

The story of Burke and Wills’ crossing of Australia in 1861 is iconic in Australian history.

This resource examines the expedition in the context of the 19^th century European explorations of Australia. Reasons for the failure of the expedition and basic errors by Burke and Wills are discussed and the role of Aboriginal people, especially in their assistance of King, the sole survivor, is examined.

This resource is designed to complement the Year 5 Australian History curriculum, but can be used in any examination of European explorations of Australia.