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In 1901, the census reported that there were 3296 Buddhists in Australia - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 10 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 10
In 1901, the census reported that there were 3296 Buddhists in Australia. By 1947 there were 411. What was the main cause of this change? (A) World War II (B) Conver... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 1901, the census reported that there were 3296 Buddhists in Australia - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 10 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
What was the main cause of this change?
Answer
The significant decrease in the number of Buddhists in Australia from 3296 in 1901 to 411 in 1947 can primarily be attributed to The White Australia Policy. This policy, enacted in the early 20th century, aimed to restrict non-European immigration, which affected the influx of individuals who practiced Buddhism.
The White Australia Policy established various immigration restrictions that limited the arrival of Asian migrants, including those from Buddhist cultures. As a result, the community dwindled due to lack of new arrivals and integration.
While factors such as World War II and conversion to Christianity may have played roles in the changes in religious demographics, the core issue remains linked to systematic government policies that directly targeted immigration patterns, thus directly impacting the Buddhist population.