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The Anzac Legend Essay Example

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The Anzac Legend Essay Example
There are four main qualities to the ANZAC legend: an independent spirit, bravery, mateship and spirit of the bushman. The ANZAC’s defined their nations’ reputation during World War I through their display of these qualities.
The ANZAC’s were known as independent and free spirits. They were rebellious and didn’t act like orderly corps, although they were very loyal and followed commands when ordered. During the Gallipoli campaign the men were known to be slightly disrespectful towards the British Generals. Often they did not salute them as they were expected to do. They became renowned as independent people and this defined Australia as a carefree country. Their free spirited demeanour was recognised by other soldiers throughout the war and therefore became a key part of the ANZAC legend.
When the ANZAC’s landed at Gallipoli they were straight away faced with a terrible fusillade of machine guns and rifles. They jumped off their boats and charged at the enemy without preparing their guns however they managed to take the Turks first trench. This shows their amazing bravery and quick thinking without being ordered. Their legendary courage and willingness to keep going against the odds formed the basis of bravery in ANZAC legend, which was therefore created at Gallipoli.
The men at Gallipoli showed mateship throughout the war. When one soldier got injured or killed the men grieved for him and his family. At Gallipoli a truce was made with the Turks to collect the dead bodies from no mans land, however at any point the enemy could have opened fire at their opposition. Risking their lives by going into no mans land to rescue the bodies of their friends, so they didn’t rot on the ground, was an example of true mateship. The ANZAC’s are now known for their true friendships and care for one another; a very significant impression made at Gallipoli.
The inventive and creative Spirit of the Bushman was also shown during the Gallipoli campaign. It was most obvious at the

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