√ Understanding Aboriginal Culture | iitutor

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• published: 23 Jan 2016
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https://www.iitutor.com Studying Aboriginal literature is a significant part of the English curriculum, as it is one of the many ways you explore Australian identity and history. It incorporates the history of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. First Aboriginal people arrived at least 40,000 years ago. Culture mostly developed in isolation until the arrival of Europeans in 1788. As many of 90% of the Aboriginal population perished following the arrival of European settlers, with most killed by diseases such as smallpox, measles and tuberculosis. There were over 250 different languages spoken prior to European settlement. Most Indigenous Australians now speak English, so many of these languages have declined. Australian Aboriginal English is a dialect which is spoken by a large portion of the Indigenous community. Aboriginal culture places high value on elders of the group. Elders within the Indigenous community are still commonly referred to as ‘Uncle’ or ‘Aunty’. Respect and value both the land and their community. Many Aboriginal people today, have, however, lost touch with their traditional heritage. Aboriginal ‘Dreamtime’ once informed many beliefs, though many now follow mainstream religions. There are hundreds of Indigenous ‘tribes’ or communities, with most distinguished by their language and regional associations. Culture, values and belief systems varied between communities. Indigenous culture could be rarely described as ubiquitous. Many communities are linked, especially by connection with place and beliefs. The ‘Stolen Generations’ involved the forcible removal of Aboriginal children from their families between 1909 and 1969. Many were taken by government groups, and sent to live in church missions and orphanages. Governments believed that the Aboriginal Australians would ‘die out’, or that children needed ‘protection’. Many English texts reflect these stories. Modern Aboriginal culture is mostly aligned with Western culture, and incorporates many modern styles. Indigenous Australians mostly recognised through sport and the arts. Artistic groups and professional sport organisations frequently work alongside governments in welfare programs. Social Issues and Health Issues. Many social and health issues remain prominent in Indigenous communities, especially when compared to the wider Australian population: Higher ratios of substance abuse, Lower educational outcomes, Abuse of children in many communities, Lower life expectancy and health issues, Higher rates of imprisonment. Indigenous culture is rich and varied. Incorporates many ideologies. Also represents a history of oppression since European arrival.