An overview of The Eureka Stockade's Rebellion

On December 3rd 1854, courageous miners in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia, revolted against unreasonable actions implemented by domineering authorities. The repression of the miners was a struggle in which shaped the future of Australian society. Though they were defeated, key demands made by the protestors were achieved. Their demands were to disband the office of Gold Commissioners; abolish the miners' licence tax; have political representation; have manhood suffrage and to have no property qualifications and have payment for Legislative Council members.#The Eureka Stockade provided numerous achievements that can be acknowledged as an influence for Australia's society. The early 1850 period brought the discovery of gold in various locations across Victoria. As a result, a mass exodus of populace occurred from the colony settlements. The discovery also resulted in an influx of immigrants of many nationalities. The government responded to the significant amount of increase of populace in the goldfields by enforcing a fee named the "Miner's Licence" in 1851.

A memorial stone to some of those who died during ...

Depiction of the Eureka Stockade by Beryl Ireland ...

Map of the stockade and opposing forces

The 'licence' enabled a miner to excavate in a set area for an expense. The licence was used as the main mechanism for the government to accumulate revenue.# The inconvenience of 'licence hunts' and the brutality involved in the execution was found inadequate by the miners. Governor, Sir Charles Hotham ordered an additional licence hunt every week; two a week starting in September 1854. This was performed as Sir Hotham was concerned at the lack of acquiescence with the licence.

Many miners stood bravely for what they believed was right, though, some of their actions and most of the government and police force's actions were believed to be unnecessary. An event which occurred in October that enhanced the conflict was that of the unjust acquittal of James Bentley. James Bentley, the owner of the Eureka Hotel, murdered a miner named...