Defining Moments in Australian History Archives

Defining Moments in Australian History: the Petrov affair

In April 1954, Soviet spies Vladimir and Evdokia Petrov, masquerading as Canberra diplomats, defected to Australia.

27 February 1902: Harry ‘Breaker’ Morant and Peter Handcock are executed.

26 January 1788: A convict settlement is establish at Sydney Cove.

1797: Merino sheep introduced to Australia.

1867: Australia’s first royal visit, by Prince Alfred, son of Queen Victoria.

1956: Television introduced in time for Australia’s first Olympic Games in Melbourne.

1792: First Nations man Pemulwuy leads resistance against British colonists.

1975: One of Australia’s most recognisable health campaigns begins.

1854: Goldminers stage a rebellion at Ballarat.