It’s well known that personal connections foster empathy for others. Online access to the collections of cultural institutions, coupled with online tools for students to share their thoughts, provide many new opportunities to build these connections. With ANZAC day approaching, here are some resources to engage students in the first global war.

State Library of Victoria – The ANZAC Spirit

This gallery showcases images from the collection of the State Library of Victoria illuminating the human side of the War. See images of soldiers training, relaxing, exercising, or even getting a haircut. Links to the catalogue records for the images give access to further details for research.

ergo – Australia and World War I

This site combines extensive digitised primary source material with short essays and external links to provide deeper context for Australia’s role in this global conflict. Topics covered include the role of women, propaganda, controversies around recruitment and conscription, life on the front lines, and the fate of returned servicemen. Primary sources include printed material, photographs, and one-of-a-kind diaries and letters, showing personal stories as well as the larger picture. The site also features material about World War 2.

1000 Poppies

This commemoration and remembrance website was produced by the History Teachers Association of Victoria. Registered users can plant a poppy in the site’s virtual poppy field, attaching a message of remembrance. These messages can be chosen from a pre-prepared list, or users can write their own. The site also allows groups to share images videos and stories, and is supported by a range of teacher resources.

ANZAC Day – Australian War Memorial

Resources from the War Memorial include primary sources, essays, transcripts of speeches, and more. The War Memorial is always a great reference point for any topic dealing with Australians and warfare.