Observations - non-Chinese

Observations - non-Chinese

For much of our evidence on Chinese Australian history – especially in the 19th century – reliance is necessarily on European observers and European records. A great deal of this material is patronising at best, and stereotypical or even plain made up at worst. In general, such observation pieces often tell us more about the writers than about those being observed – although this too can be useful. Nevertheless, amid this diverse material can be found many instances of careful and interesting observation – even when it is patronising (and/or ignorant). Personal observation when sincerely given can provide much of value.