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politics1d ago
In a world with democracy in decline, we have much to learn from those who rallied against Whitlam’s dismissal | Frank Bongiorno and James Watson
- The 1975 Whitlam dismissal sparked fears of public disorder, yet mass protests and street actions helped sustain democratic norms in Australia.
- Archival discoveries, including palace letters, reveal more about leaders and the public’s view during the crisis.
- The article notes the unions did not trigger a general strike, contrasting fears with the peaceful but vigorous public response.
- Public sentiment leaned toward moderation, with leaders and ordinary citizens shaping a consensus-driven political order after the crisis.
- The piece argues contemporary democracies can learn from vigilance and civic energy shown in 1975 Australia.
- The authors link Whitlam’s dismissal to the rise of Hawke-era moderation and the shift toward middle-ground politics.
- The piece places 1975 within a broader context of global Democratic decline but emphasizes local resilience.
- The article cites public support and donations as examples of civic participation beyond strikes.
- The piece underscores that the crisis ended with a robust democratic order, shaped by ordinary citizens.
- The authors credit the 1975 events with influencing Australia’s political culture and democratic resilience.
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