Historians note that before the First Fleet arrived in 1788, the Australian continent was home to a vast range of individual cultures. Which fact most clearly illustrates the extent of this cultural variety among the first inhabitants?
- There were more than 250 distinct languages spoken, along with hundreds of dialectsAnswer
- BAll people across the continent followed a single, unified system of government and one language
- CEvery group migrated to the same central location each year to share a common national culture
Answer
The fact that there were more than 250 distinct languages and hundreds of dialects clearly illustrates the cultural variety of the first inhabitants.
The correct answer is that there were more than 250 distinct languages and hundreds of dialects. This enormous variety of languages demonstrates that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were made up of many different groups, each with its own customs, laws, and traditions, rather than being one single, uniform nation.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Indigenous Linguistic Diversity
Hints
1
Think about the number of different languages mentioned in the Australian citizenship resource book.
2
Consider whether Indigenous Australians were one single group or many different groups.
Practice More
Review the section on 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' in the 'Our Common Bond' booklet to understand the connection between language and Country.
Estimated Time:45s