Treaties are formal agreements between Indigenous peoples and colonial governments. They often aimed to establish peace, define land rights, or facilitate settlement. The outcomes of these treaties have had lasting impacts on Indigenous communities and the history of the Commonwealth.

Source A: Excerpt from a treaty document

'The parties agree to mutual respect of land and rights, and to establish peaceful relations.' Provenance: Official treaty document, 19th century.

The colonial governments sought land, resources, and security, prompting them to negotiate treaties with Indigenous peoples. Indigenous groups, in turn, aimed to protect their land, culture, and sovereignty.

Source B: Indigenous perspective on treaties

'The treaties were seen as a way to protect our land and way of life, but often they were broken or misunderstood.' Provenance: Indigenous historian interview, 2005.

The aftermath of treaty-making often resulted in loss of land, cultural disruption, and marginalization for Indigenous peoples. Some treaties led to improvements in rights and recognition, but many had long-lasting negative effects.

Source C: Historical analysis

'Treaties frequently resulted in Indigenous communities losing significant land and sovereignty, creating ongoing social and economic challenges.' Provenance: Historian report, 2010.

Understanding treaties helps us recognize the complexities of colonial history and the lasting effects on Indigenous peoples. These agreements are central to debates about land rights, justice, and reconciliation today.

Source D: Modern perspective

'Treaties are not just historical documents but living agreements that continue to influence Indigenous rights and reconciliation efforts.' Provenance: Contemporary Indigenous advocate speech, 2018.