A: Choose the correct option
1: The Indigenous Australians probably came from: Asia
2: The Indigenous Australians were: Nomadic
3: The didgeridoo is a: Musical instrument
4: The Australian government enacted land rights legislation for the Indigenous Australians in: 1975
B: Fill in the blanks
1: The Indigenous Australians were earlier called Aborigines.
2: Each group had its Elder who laid down strict rules of conduct.
3: A favourite food of the Indigenous Australians was bush tucker.
4: Rock paintings were made mostly by using natural colours.
5: The current population of the Indigenous Australians is about 800,000.
C: Mark the wrong statements and correct them
1: A group of the Indigenous Australians was identified by its totem.
✅ Correct.
2: The European settlers treated the natives with compassion.
❌ Correction: The European settlers mistreated the natives and displaced them from their lands.
3: A boomerang is a musical instrument.
❌ Correction: A boomerang is a hunting tool and weapon, not a musical instrument.
4: The religion of the Indigenous Australians is heavily based on Dreaming.
✅ Correct.
Answer in 10–20 words
- Who are the Indigenous Australians? Where did they come from?
They are the original people of Australia who came from Asia over 40,000 years ago. - In which areas of Australia did they settle?
They settled all over Australia, especially in forests, deserts, and coastal areas. - What were the occupations of the Indigenous Australians?
They were hunters, gatherers, and fishers, living close to nature and using natural resources. - What is the didgeridoo?
The didgeridoo is a long wooden wind instrument played by Indigenous Australians for music and ceremonies. - In which part of India would you find local tribes whose ambience and lifestyle is similar to those of the Indigenous Australians?
In central and northeastern India, like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Nagaland, tribal lifestyles are similar.
E: Answer in 50–60 words
- Describe the social order of the Indigenous Australians before the coming of the Europeans.
Indigenous Australians lived in small family groups or clans. Each group had its own land, language, and customs. Elders led the community and taught laws, traditions, and stories. Their society was peaceful and deeply connected to nature and land. - Briefly explain the contribution of the Indigenous Australians in the field of art and music.
They are known for dot paintings, rock art, and bark paintings. These often tell stories of their land and beliefs. In music, they use instruments like the didgeridoo and clapsticks. Their art and music are deeply spiritual and part of their identity. - Enumerate the welfare programs undertaken by the Australian government for the Indigenous Australians.
The government provides education, healthcare, housing, and employment support. Land rights and special cultural programs are also part of welfare efforts to protect Indigenous heritage and improve their living conditions. - What are the different rights that the Indigenous Australians have acquired from the Australian government?
They have land rights, the right to vote, access to education and healthcare, and the freedom to follow their culture. Some regions also give them a say in local laws and decisions.
F: Answer in 75–100 words
- How did the European settlers treat the Indigenous Australians?
The European settlers treated Indigenous Australians unfairly. They took over their lands, hunted their animals, and introduced new diseases. Many Indigenous people died due to violence or sickness. Their culture was ignored, and they were often forced to live in poor conditions. Many were removed from their families. The settlers did not respect their way of life, which led to great loss and suffering for the Indigenous people. - The religious beliefs of the Indigenous Australians are unique. Justify the statement.
Indigenous Australians believe in Dreamtime, which explains how the world and everything in it was created. They believe that spirits shaped the land, animals, and people. Every rock, river, and tree is considered sacred. Their religion is deeply connected to nature and passed down through stories, songs, and dances. These beliefs are very different from modern religions and show their deep respect for Earth.
G: Give reasons for the following
- In Tasmania, the entire Indigenous population was wiped out.
European settlers brought diseases and fought with the Indigenous people, causing their numbers to fall drastically in Tasmania. - Indigenous Australians lived in perfect harmony with nature.
They used only what they needed from nature, never wasted resources, and respected all living things. - The permanent reserves are still out of bounds to non-Indigenous people without special permits.
These areas protect Indigenous culture and land, keeping them safe from disturbance and allowing traditions to continue.