The Life and Times of John Curtin
Celebrations, Memories and History
This year’s National History Challenge theme Celebrations, Memories and History offers an opportunity to examine the life of John Curtin, wartime prime minister of Australia from 1941 to 1945. 2010 marks the 65th anniversary of Curtin’s death.
Curtin became prime minister on 7 October 1941, just two months before the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbour.
John Curtin’s life is well worth celebrating and remembering and his contribution to Australia’s history is worth writing about. A contemporary of Curtin, Arthur Coles, an independent Member of the House of Representatives, remembered John Curtin as wartime leader.
‘John Curtin proved himself to be capable of really great deeds…His constant skill in guiding the affairs of the nation throughout the most critical and perilous days of its history will long be remembered. His name will be revered by thankful people for the fearless courage which he displayed… His ability to rise to the needs of the moment in the face of danger, and his capacity, regardless of criticism, patiently to organize the Australian war program …placed him in the ranks of the great figures of our time.’
[Excerpts from memorials to John Curtin published in the Votes and Proceedings, no 59 dated Thursday 5 July 1945 (Source: JCPML00129/21)]
The significance of Curtin has been recognised in a number of biographies which are a great starting point for your research into his life. We recommend that you use either Serle or Edwards first and then Day or Ross for extra detail.
Curtin’s life has been celebrated in variety of ways. Buildings and institutions, roads, events, lectures, a federal electorate, a local government area and schools have been named in his honour. The John Curtin Prime Ministerial Library (JCPML) is an example of an institution created to honour the life of John Curtin.
To investigate how of John Curtin’s life has been commemorated start by browsing the JCPML website at http://john.curtin.edu.au. In particular have a look at http://john.curtin.edu.au/resources/jcmemory.html. and the online resources at http://john.curtin.edu.au/resources/.
Some questions for consideration
Some things you could do
There are lots of options for an investigation of the life and times of John Curtin within the National History Challenge theme Celebrations, Memories and History.
Prizes
State/Territory winners; Cash prize of $200
National winner; Cash prize of $300 and travel to Canberra to attend the National Presentation Ceremony in Mural Hall, Parliament House. The sponsor covers travel, meals, accommodation and incidental costs, to, from, and whilst in Canberra up to the value of $500.
For More Information
Ms Rosslyn Marshall
Education Officer
John Curtin Prime Ministerial Library
Phone: (08) 9266 4205
Fax: (08) 9266 4185