Why was the year 1901 a special year for Australia?

Answer 1

1901 was a special year for Australia in a number of ways: It was the year the Commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed as the states were united in Federation (January 1). The first Commonwealth Parliament was opened in Australia by the Duke of Cornwall and York, later King George V (May 9). The Australian flag was flown for the first time (September 3). Despite Australia's newfound independence, the country also mourned the passing of Queen Victoria of England on January 22, after a reign of sixty-three years, seven months, and two days.

Answer 2

1901 is the year Australia came into being as a nation - it is the year that Australia was federated. The six states which were originally separate colonies joined together to become the Commonwealth of Australia. This did not mean independence from England, but it constituted the first step. Thus, it was also the year that Australia had its first Prime Minister leading the government.

Answer 3

Australia was created as a self governing country. Prior to that all the states were colonies of Britain that operated independently of each other.