Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Emu Wars
Apr 17, 2019
Ever heard of a war against emus? In post-WWI Australia, veterans faced a hilarious clash with these flightless birds as they invaded farmland. The podcast dives into the absurdity of the Emu War, exploring how military might was pitted against emus disrupting wheat crops. It also touches on the veterans' struggles with land grants and diminishing support during tough times. The ridiculous yet serious nature of this bizarre conflict reveals a unique slice of Australian history that is both informative and entertaining!
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Veteran Hardship
- After World War I, the Australian government promised veterans farmland and high wheat prices.
- However, land shortages, a drought, the Great Depression, and reduced wheat prices created hardship.
Emu Invasion
- Emu are large birds, similar to ostriches, that graze together.
- Attracted by plentiful wheat fields, around 20,000 emu started eating the veterans' crops.
The Emu War Begins
- The Australian army, led by Major General P.W. Meredith, was deployed to deal with the emus.
- The emus proved difficult targets, scattering and running when shot at.