Historians to Discuss the Impact of War on NZ Society

Featherston Booktown has announced an event to mark the centenary of the Armistice on 11 November, titled ‘In the Shadow of War’ which explores eminent historian, Paul Ham’s writings that “The victory of 1918 destroyed our civilisation. Nothing can make that worthwhile.”.

New Zealand did not escape unscathed. Of the 100,000 Kiwis who served in WW1, almost 17,000 were killed and 41,000 were wounded – a 58 percent casualty rate - and the Great War ushered in significant changes for our wider society which impacted families, the role of women and our sense of national identity.

The panel-style event of leading historians, will be moderated by distinguished NZ diplomat and co-Chair of the World War One Centenary History Project, Mr Gerald Hensley, at the Kiwi Hall, Featherston.

“We are pleased that Featherston Booktown is able to present this special event as part of the official Featherston Armistice Centenary programme and the eagerly anticipated unveiling of the Featherston Camp Sculpture,” said Mr Peter Biggs, Chair, Featherston Booktown.

“We have assembled a panel of leading historians who will discuss the significance of the year 1918 and the impact the war has had on New Zealand society.”

The three-person panel discussing the far reaching consequences of war for our country from 1918 to the present day, will comprise: Jane Tolerton - Wellington writer and co-founder of the WWI Oral History Archive; Neil Frances - the Wairarapa’s leading military and aviation historian; and John Crawford - the New Zealand Defence Force Historian.

‘In the Shadow of War’ will be held Sunday 11 November, 4.00pm - 5.15pm at the Kiwi Hall, Featherston. Tickets are $16 and available at https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2018/in-the-shadow-of-war/featherston or at the door.

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