The Anzac Legend in Australian Society: Recent Historiographical Debates

The role of the Anzac legend in Australian society is a frequent source of confrontation in the long-running culture wars. Critics of the Anzac legend argue that it is a state-imposed phenomenon that sanitises, even glorifies war, and promotes a militaristic brand of Australian nationalism. Defenders counter that Australians are deeply attached to the Anzac legend, which represents noble values such as mateship and sacrifice, and pays appropriate tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.