Let’s talk about Australia National Hero. Australia is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Throughout the years, many people have contributed to the country’s development and growth, and one such person is Edward Kelly. His story is one of bravery, rebellion, and perseverance. In this article, we will delve into the life of Edward Kelly, his contribution to Australia, and his legacy.
Early Life and Background of Australia National Hero
Edward Kelly was born on December 1854 in Beveridge, Victoria. He was the third of eight children of an Irish family who had immigrated to Australia in the 1840s. Kelly’s father, John “Red” Kelly, was a former convict and a farmer who died when Kelly was just 12 years old. Kelly’s mother, Ellen, was a strong-willed woman who worked hard to provide for her family.
The Beginning of a Life of Crime
Kelly’s troubles with the law started at a young age. In 1869, he was arrested for assault and theft. He spent several months in prison and was released on bail. However, he failed to show up for his trial and was subsequently arrested again. This marked the beginning of a life of crime for Kelly.
The Kelly Gang
In 1878, Kelly and his gang robbed the National Bank in Euroa, Victoria. This was followed by a raid on the Bank of New South Wales in Jerilderie, New South Wales, in 1879. The Kelly Gang became infamous for their daring robberies and their defiance of the authorities. They even wrote a letter, now known as the Jerilderie Letter, which explained their grievances against the police and the government.
The Siege at Glenrowan
In June 1880, the Kelly Gang planned their most ambitious heist yet – the derailment of a train carrying police officers to Melbourne. However, the police were tipped off and a shootout ensued. The Kelly Gang took shelter in the Glenrowan Inn, and a siege ensued. The siege lasted for almost 24 hours, and it ended with the death of three members of the gang and the capture of Kelly himself.
The Trial and Execution of Edward Kelly
Kelly was tried and found guilty of murder and several other charges. He was sentenced to death by hanging, which was carried out on November 11, 1880, at the Old Melbourne Gaol. Kelly’s last words were, “Such is life.” His execution was a significant event in Australian history, and it marked the end of the Kelly Gang’s reign of terror.
Legacy of Edward Kelly
Despite his criminal record, Kelly is considered a national hero by many Australians. He is seen as a symbol of rebellion against an unjust system and a defender of the poor and oppressed. His story has been the subject of many books, movies, and songs. The Kelly Gang’s armor, which they wore during the siege at Glenrowan, is a popular tourist attraction in Australia.
FAQs
1. Who was Edward Kelly?
Edward Kelly was a notorious Australian outlaw who is considered a national hero by many Australians. He was a member of the Kelly Gang, which carried out daring robberies and defied the authorities.
2. What was the Kelly Gang’s most famous robbery?
The Kelly Gang’s most famous robbery was the raid on the Bank of New South Wales in Jerilderie, New South Wales, in 1879.
3. What happened during the siege at Glenrowan?
The siege at Glenrowan lasted for almost 24 hours, during which the Kelly Gang took shelter in the Glenrowan Inn. It ended with the death of three members of the gang and the capture of Edward Kelly himself.
4. Why is Edward Kelly considered a national hero?
Despite his criminal record, Kelly is seen as a symbol of rebellion against an unjust system and a defender of the poor and oppressed. His story has been romanticized in Australian folklore and popular culture, and he is revered by many Australians.
5. What is the significance of the Kelly Gang’s armor?
The Kelly Gang’s armor, which they wore during the siege at Glenrowan, is a popular tourist attraction in Australia. It is a symbol of the country’s rich history and cultural heritage, and it serves as a reminder of the bravery and defiance of the Kelly Gang.
Conclusion
Edward Kelly’s story is a fascinating one, filled with drama, intrigue, and rebellion. Despite his criminal record, he is considered a national hero by many Australians, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world. His story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
References
- State Library Victoria. (2021). Ned Kelly. Retrieved from https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/search-discover/explore-collections-theme/australian-history/ned-kelly
- KellyGang. (n.d.). The KellyGang. Retrieved from http://www.kellygang.asn.au/
- Australian Dictionary of Biography. (2012). Kelly, Edward (Ned) (1855-1880). Retrieved from https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/kelly-edward-ned-3935
