- HONEST HISTORY - https://honesthistory.net.au/wp -

Smith, Tony: Dubious celebrations

Smith, Tony

Dubious celebrations of war‘, Pearls and Irritations, 25 July 2014

Makes some important points on television programs about war which seek ‘sentimental responses in admiration of those who enlisted’, the wariness felt by war doubters once war is declared (wary of being seen as not supporting soldiers) and the way Anzac has been ‘cynically exploited’ by politicians.

Over the next five years, all thinking Australians should regard it as their duty to look critically at First World War commemorations. They should be very sceptical about any events which could make it easier for a future Australian Government to commit the military to conflicts overseas. In particular, they should scrutinise the statements of current politicians who, unfortunately, are likely to cynically exploit every occasion to enhance their popularity.