These texts, primarily drawn from "The Commonwealth," an Australian journal serving as the official organ of the Australasian Federation League, offer a comprehensive exploration of the burgeoning movement for Australian Federation in the mid-1890s. They highlight the urgent need for political union to address shared challenges like defense, trade barriers, and foreign policy, contrasting this with the limitations of the existing provincial systems. The articles discuss various proposed schemes for Federation, debates surrounding financial implications and representation, and the perceived apathy of the public and politicians towards the cause, while also celebrating instances of progress and highlighting the growing national identity among Australians. Ultimately, the sources paint a picture of a nation grappling with the complexities of forging a united future.<br /><br />Detailed Timeline of Events (based on the provided sources):<br />1859: James Sandy & Co. is established.<br />Prior to 1889: The British Government sub-divides Australian territory for colonisation schemes, including the establishment of Western Australia as a separate colony and setting apart a portion of New South Wales for experimentation.<br />1889: Major-General Hutton outlines a scheme for Federal defence and the military position of Australia at this time is described. Hutton's reorganisation of the New South Wales forces is based on the need for an organisation suitable for Federal and local action.<br />1892: A Royal Commission describes the state of the New South Wales forces as "highly unsatisfactory."<br />Prior to October 1894: Discussions regarding Australian Federation have occurred from several centres, although a specific method for achieving it has not been provided.<br />October 1, 1894:The first number of "The Commonwealth" is published.<br />An article by Frank Cotton discusses the New South Wales Railway System from a Federal standpoint.<br />An article by R. R. Garran discusses Federation from a Legal Standpoint.<br />An article by Rev. S. S. Tovey, B.A., provides reasons for being a Federationist.<br />The Queensland Government, through Hugh M. Nelson, assures the Prime Minister of New South Wales of its assistance in a movement for Federation, provided New South Wales participates.<br />Current Notes by "Savage" are included.<br />Document Title: Excerpts from "China.pdf" (Appears to be from "The Commonwealth" newspaper, likely around 1894-1895)<br />Reviewer: AI Assistant<br />Date: October 26, 2023<br />Key Themes and Important Ideas:<br />The primary focus of these excerpts is the urgent and multifaceted case for Federation of the Australian Colonies. The document passionately advocates for a united Australia, arguing that the current state of disunity is detrimental to the colonies' political, economic, social, and defence interests. Beyond the central theme of Federation, several other significant ideas are explored....
