Question

Difficulty: MediumPost-World War II Migration Programs

After the Second World War, the Australian government launched large-scale migration programs to help develop the nation. Which famous infrastructure project is a major example of the contribution made by these post-war migrants?

  1. The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric SchemeAnswer
  2. B
    The establishment of the first settlement at Sydney Cove
  3. C
    The construction of the first overland telegraph line

Answer

The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme is the correct answer because it was a significant post-war project built largely by migrants.
The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme is widely recognized as a symbol of post-war Australia. It was built between 1949 and 1974, employing over 100,000 people from more than 30 different countries, most of whom were recent migrants arriving under the new programs.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the historical context
The question refers to the period immediately following World War II (post-1945).
This is the time when Australia launched the 'populate or perish' migration programs to increase the population and workforce.
2
Evaluate the infrastructure projects mentioned
Identify that the Snowy Mountains Scheme was built between 1949 and 1974.
The timing aligns perfectly with the post-war migration boom where many 'New Australians' provided the necessary labor for large projects.
3
Differentiate from other eras
Exclude the First Fleet settlement (1788) and the overland telegraph (1870s).
These events belong to the early colonial and mid-colonial periods, not the post-WWII era specified in the question.

Key Concept

Contribution of post-war migrants to national infrastructure

Hints

1
Think about a massive project built in the mid-20th century (late 1940s onwards).
2
This project involved workers from many different countries and focused on generating water and power.
3
The correct answer is a hydro-electric scheme located in the mountains between New South Wales and Victoria.

Practice More

Research the 'populate or perish' slogan to understand why the government felt such a large increase in the workforce was necessary for Australia's defense and development.
Estimated Time:45s
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