Reflecting on the Australia Day debate of the last few days, I have written two essays, both 'What if" situations.

The first essay, below,  imagines the Romans coming to Australia, rather than conquering Britannia in 55BC. The second follows on and includes the impact of Christianity in the Roman Empire from the 4th century onwards.

Title: "Australia: What If the Romans Had Landed at Botany Bay in 55 BC?" 

Introduction The history of Australia is one filled with unique and fascinating events. From the arrival of Indigenous peoples over 65,000 years ago to the British colonization in the 18th century, the continent has seen a rich tapestry of cultures, explorations, and developments. However, what if we were to imagine a different scenario, where the Romans, known for their imperial conquests and advancements, had arrived in Australia's Botany Bay in 55 BC? How would this alternative historical narrative impact the development of the land we now call Australia? In this essay, we will explore the hypothetical scenario of Roman arrival and its potential consequences for Australia's history, culture, and society. 

I. Roman Arrival and Exploration In the year 55 BC, Julius Caesar was engaged in his campaigns in Gaul (modern-day France). It was during this time that Caesar made a fateful decision to expand the Roman Empire's reach beyond the known world. In this alternate history, instead of focusing solely on European expansion, Caesar directs a naval expedition to explore and potentially conquer lands to the south, leading the Romans to discover the continent of Australia. This early encounter with the Australian continent would have far-reaching consequences. 

 1. Mapping the Land

 Upon their arrival, Roman explorers would likely conduct initial surveys and mapping of the Australian coast. This early exploration could lead to more comprehensive knowledge of the continent's geography, including its vast deserts, fertile regions, and coastal areas. Accurate mapping would provide essential information for future settlements and resource exploitation. 

 2. Establishing Trade Routes

 The Romans were adept at establishing and maintaining trade networks. The discovery of Australia could lead to the establishment of sea routes connecting the new land to the Roman Empire. This could facilitate the exchange of goods, culture, and knowledge between the Roman world and the indigenous peoples of Australia, altering the course of history for both.

II. Indigenous Encounters and Interactions 

 The arrival of Romans in Australia would inevitably result in encounters with the continent's Indigenous peoples, who had inhabited the land for tens of thousands of years. These interactions would have profound effects on both Indigenous cultures and Roman perceptions of the "new world." 

 1. Cultural Exchange Roman contact with Indigenous Australian societies would lead to cultural exchange. The exchange of knowledge, technology, and practices could have accelerated the development of Indigenous cultures, particularly in terms of agriculture, engineering, and urban planning. Conversely, Indigenous cultural elements may have influenced Roman society.

 2. Language and Communication The establishment of communication between the Romans and Indigenous peoples would be a complex endeavor. The development of a common language or pidgin language for trade and diplomacy could facilitate interactions. The exchange of language and ideas could profoundly impact the linguistic and cultural diversity of both Roman and Indigenous societies.

III. Roman Settlement and Influence With time, the Romans would likely establish permanent settlements along the Australian coast, leading to a Roman presence on the continent. The nature of these settlements and the extent of Roman influence would vary based on factors such as resources, climate, and interactions with Indigenous populations.

 1. Roman Cities and Infrastructure Roman settlements in Australia would bear the hallmark of Roman urban planning and architecture. The construction of roads, aqueducts, amphitheaters, and temples would transform the landscape. Roman-style cities might emerge along the fertile coastal regions, showcasing Roman engineering prowess.

 2. Resource Exploitation Australia's vast and diverse landscapes would offer the Romans a wealth of resources, including minerals, timber, and fertile land for agriculture. Resource exploitation could lead to significant economic benefits for the Roman Empire. The availability of Australian resources might also alter the dynamics of trade within the Roman Empire and its territories. 

 IV. Impact on Roman History and Empire

The presence of Australia in the Roman Empire's domain would undoubtedly have ripple effects on Roman history, politics, and culture.

 1. Economic Prosperity The influx of Australian resources, particularly precious minerals and exotic goods, would bolster the Roman economy. This newfound wealth could influence imperial policies and potentially impact the stability of the Roman Empire.

 2. Political Influence Australia's importance within the Roman Empire could lead to shifts in the political power dynamics. Leaders or governors overseeing the Australian provinces might hold significant sway within the empire, potentially altering the course of Roman history. 

 3. Cultural Exchange The fusion of Roman and Indigenous cultures would result in a unique blend of traditions, art, and beliefs. Roman literature, art, and philosophy might incorporate elements of Australian culture, enriching the cultural tapestry of the Roman world.

V. Long-Term Consequences 

As centuries pass, the Roman presence in Australia would have enduring consequences for the continent's development, identity, and future interactions with the rest of the world. 

 1. The Formation of a Distinct Australian Identity Over time, a distinct Australian identity would emerge, shaped by the amalgamation of Indigenous, Roman, and potentially other cultural influences. This unique identity would have its roots in the rich history of encounters and exchanges between different cultures.

 2. Influence on Global History The presence of a thriving Roman colony on the Australian continent could alter the course of global history. Australia might become a pivotal hub for trade and cultural exchange between the Roman Empire, Asia, and the Pacific. This could lead to early advancements in navigation, exploration, and global connectivity. 

 3. Impact on Indigenous Societies The presence of Romans would likely accelerate the development of Indigenous Australian societies, but it could also bring about challenges. Competition for resources and potential conflicts might shape the relationship between Indigenous populations and Roman settlers. Indigenous cultures could evolve differently, influenced by Roman presence.

Conclusion

The hypothetical scenario of the Romans landing in Botany Bay in 55 BC offers a fascinating glimpse into an alternative history for Australia. From initial explorations and cultural exchanges to the establishment of settlements and long-term consequences, the impact of Roman presence on the continent would be profound and far-reaching. Australia's history, culture, and society would evolve in unique ways, and the ripple effects would extend beyond its shores, influencing the course of Roman history and global interactions. While this alternate history remains speculative, it underscores the importance of historical contingencies and the interconnectedness of civilisations throughout the ages.

Kevin Harper Australia Day 2024