The mythology of Gallipoli celebrates Australian patriotism and sacrifice, but it obscures a history of fierce working-class opposition to the First World War. As thousands were sent to die in an imperialist slaughter, workers, socialists and trade unionists fought conscription, challenged wartime repression and organised against the drive to war.

The bitter conscription battles of 1916–17 exposed deep class divisions in Australian society. This session recovers the radical history behind the Anzac legend and explores the lessons of working-class resistance to imperialist war.