Anzac Day diversions

World War II saw the idea of Australia, as a nation, “arrive” (and also boosted the popularity of Anzac day). The sense of class and internationalism lost its way under Stalinism and in Australia the Communist Party wrapped itself in the flag of patriotism to fight the fascists. In fact World War II was a repeat of World War I - the clash of two blocs of imperialism.

Australia has always had an imperialist “protector”. This used to be Britain and is now the US. As part of our ruling class's desire to be the major imperialist power in the region, we have attached ourselves to a powerful ally which will enable us to carry out that role. To do that we must pay our dues. That is why we have a long history of following our ally into imperialist adventures around the world.

From Sudan in 1885 to Iraq in 2003 we have participated in a large number of foreign wars to help keep the UK and the US on side with our own expansionist project. So even though Kevin Rudd is supposedly pulling out of Iraq (more sleight of hand than reality) he is continuing our role in Afghanistan to show to the US his commitment to the alliance and to allow our own role in the region - East Timor, the Solomon islands, PNG for example - to continue.

Gallipoli itself is an example of our ongoing imperialist view of the world. We were part of a force that invaded a country that we had no quarrel with and which did not threaten us.

Anzac day also performs another function. War is an integral part of capitalism and imperialism. Most people’s initial reaction is to recoil from war and all the horror it brings. Anzac day downplays that horror and makes war acceptable. It is propaganda to allow the ruling class to call on the next generation of workers to join the war effort if needed.

And it may divert people’s attention away from immediate economic concerns - I may be losing my house or job but at least we diggers are good fighters and I am so proud my son is in Iraq.

Me? I’ll celebrate May Day, the day of class solidarity and internationalism.