dec 3, 1854 - The Eureka Stockade

Description:

The Eureka Stockade was caused by disagreement over what gold miners thought were unfair laws of their work. Miners weren't able to claim land in which they worked and risked being relocated at a moment's notice. They were forced by law to buy a mining license and carry it with them at all times, or face a fine and arrest.

in November 1854 Police invaded mines and enforced the licensing laws. after miners refused to cooperate, starting a riot by burning their licenses and stoning police. Later 500 miners gather under the Eureka flag and elect Peter Lalor as their leader. they build a stockade at Eureka on November 30th and wait for the police to attack.

The battle happens on the 3rd of December The military supports the police, 125 miners are taken prisoner, Six police die and at least 22 miners die, and many are left badly wounded

The Eureka Stockade took many lives and the miners lost their battle, the changes they sought eventually happen, in a few months, all the miners are released except one. and the license is changed out for a tax on sold gold, and Miners were given the right to own land they worked on