Aboriginal resistance: a study of its social roots and organisations

Abstract

An attempt is made here to suggest how and why Aboriginal resistance is, socially defined, constructed, and organised. It is argued that from both a historical and current perspective, resistance has evolved out of a social need to preserve (traditional) or rediscover (urban-based) Aboriginal values and institutions. With a stress on inter-connectedness, the main concepts and institutions that are discussed include "My Country", "Community", and "Dreamtime". It Is shown that Aboriginal resistance has been directed against colonial authority which, from the initial stages of contact to the present day, has attempted to destroy and undermine Aboriginal social life.