State Library Victoria members can access hundreds of databases from home (if your home is in Victoria). That’s millions of articles, magazines, archives, ebooks, videos, songs, audiobooks and more, available through the catalogue anytime. We’re taking a closer look at new and/or interesting databases as well as hidden gems from our collections. Read on for top picks and tips from Librarians. Not a member yet? Sign up online first and reward your curiosity. 

Today we’re looking at Decolonization: Politics and independence in former colonial and Commonwealth territories.

Through primary sources such as political and protest manifestos, press clippings, posters, speeches and committee papers, the database provides an insight into the development of unique identities for Commonwealth nations and former British colonies in the post-World War II era, as they began moving away from colonial structures towards more self-determination politically and socially. Coverage includes Australia, New Zealand and Canada, but also a significant focus on Africa and some material from French and Portuguese territories. Through different country lenses, subjects range from economic development, education and literacy, through to civil rights, women’s rights, trade unionism and student activism.

Search bar on landing page of Decolonization: Politics and Independence in Former Colonial and Commonwealth Territories

Material is drawn from three collections:

• The Papers of African Trade Unions from Oxford University presents a varied collection of documents relating to trade unions across African nations between 1949 and 1969.  
• Political Pamphlets from the Institute of Commonwealth Studies focuses on political ephemera from political parties, pressure groups and unions.
• The Marjorie Nicholson Papers from the Trade Congress Library comprises research papers and background material on the Trade Union Congress International division and its impact on colonial welfare and development.

Some of the material in the collection reflects the western-centric nature of the collecting institutions, and features outdated historical viewpoints and language. However, this is contrasted with a variety of local and regional perspectives, which help provide more understanding of under-represented groups, complementing existing written and visual histories.

Some highlights

Different representations of political ideology

With approximately one-third of the world under Communist rule in the 20th century, coverage of the topic is significant in terms of its representation and discussion across countries, showcasing ‘What is communism?’ pamphlets through to emotive use of language and imagery.

L to R: Fred Schwarz and Christian Anti-Communism Crusade (Australia), Why Communism Kills [1985?], PG.AT.CACC.1; George Sacks and Communist Party of South Africa, Communism for South Africa [1943], PP.SA.SACP.12; Hajrah Begum and Communist Party of India, 1962, Why Women Should Vote Communist, PP.II.CPI.91.

Tracing the history and impact of different identities on a country’s development

Three figures who had a significant impact on changing the landscape of their nations, were Nelson Mandela, Bob Marley and Robert Mugabe. Shifts in South African politics can be traced through Nelson Mandela’s struggle as activist, unifying politician and finally revered statesman, Bob Marley motivated the Jamaican people using music as his platform, supporting unity, peace, and Rastafarianism, while the political journey of Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe started full of promise helping to free the country from colonialism, but ended in violence under his own dictatorial rule.

L to R: The Belgian Boycot Outspan Aktie in Order of the African National Congress, Free Nelson Mandela, n.d., PP.SA.ANC.187; People’s National Party (Jamaica), A Day of Rejoicing for All Who Defend Progress, 1976, PP.JM.PNP.89; Robert Gabriel Mugabe and ZANU-PF (Organization: Zimbabwe), 1979, Comrade President Robert Mugabe Appeals for Humanitarian Assistance for Liberated Areas in Zimbabwe, PP.ZW.ZANUPF.26.

Significant social campaigns

Particular campaigns can transform the nature of a country’s commitment to its people’s welfare. An Australian example in the database is public health scheme, Medibank, which later became Medicare.

L to R: Liberal Party of Australia. Federal Secretariat, Background Paper on Medicare: Unwanted Socialist Remedy, 1984, PP.AT.LIB.208; Australian Labor Party, Let’s Keep the Care in Medicare, 1987, PP.AT.ALP.104.

We hope you find other interesting material while exploring Decolonization: Politics and independence in former colonial and Commonwealth territories. See a full list of all of our databases, including databases on trial, by visiting our A-Z Databases page. 

We always welcome your recommendations for database trials. Let us know what you’d like to see. Do you have a research query or questions on how to use our online collections? Ask a Librarian.