Not Just the Tudors When Europeans reached Australia
Feb 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Professor Alistair Paterson, a historical archaeology expert from the University of Western Australia, joins to unpack the dramatic first encounters between Europeans and Indigenous Australians in 1606. They delve into the unexpected Dutch landing at Cape York, highlighting the cultural misunderstandings and conflicts that arose. Paterson also connects these early events to the broader consequences of European colonization and the significant archaeological implications for Indigenous histories, shedding light on a pivotal moment in Australia's narrative.
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Aboriginal Australian History
- Aboriginal Australians have lived in Australia for over 60,000 years, according to radiocarbon dating and other evidence.
- This challenges assumptions about human history and suggests early maritime technology.
Coastal Aboriginal Life
- Coastal Aboriginal peoples interacted with their environment in diverse ways, reflected in archaeological findings and oral traditions.
- Evidence suggests stories of environmental events, like rising sea levels, are embedded in Indigenous knowledge.
Portuguese in Australia?
- While maps suggest Portuguese presence, there's no material evidence of them reaching Australia.
- The "evidence" likely stems from Ptolemy's concept of a southern land and misinterpretations.