Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast History from the ballot box
Apr 28, 2025
Catherine Aldersey, curator at the National Library of Australia, discusses the importance of preserving political memorabilia, highlighting how items like campaign leaflets and posters capture democratic history. She shares insights on the sentimental value of artifacts, such as a vibrant orange sweater from the 1972 election. Aldersey also explores the evolution of political campaigning in Australia and the shift towards more civil discourse anticipated in the upcoming 2025 campaign, urging listeners to contribute to the library's vital collection.
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Archive of Unkept Political Promises
- The National Library's political ephemera collection documents campaign promises and policies that often fail to materialize.
- This archival record serves as proof of political claims, capturing shifts in policy over time.
Campaign Sweater as a Time Capsule
- A 1972 bright orange roll neck sweater was worn campaigning for the Labor Party and donated to the library.
- It is preserved as a cherished link to that election and era, safeguarded by conservators.
Early Election Campaigning and Voter Outreach
- Early 1900s election materials targeted specific voter groups, like women domestic workers, urging them to register and vote despite societal skepticism.
- Campaigning then relied heavily on in-person events and simple printed leaflets, not the colorful mass media campaigns seen later.