I've heard that New Zealand was more or less founded as a nation through the war, and after the way had a formidable reputation. But due to what? Why was it a founding event for New Zealand? Why did we get involved? How big of a role did New Zealand play?
Britain tapped her imperial possessions for men and resources during WWI. Australia and New Zealand forces saw particularly heavy fighting at Gallipoli, and this had strained imperial relations. Consequently after WWI the navy decided to conduct an Empire Cruise led by the famous HMS Hood to mend fences.
The Director of Operations for the First Sea Lord, Leo Amery, dated April 23, 1923 wrote the following memo which kickstarted the empire cruise:
I am considering the desirability…of sending a really representative squadron of our most modern ships around the Empire (a) in order to follow up any agreements for co-operation at the Imperial Conference by creating Dominion interest and enthusiasm so that such agreements may really be carried out; (b) to let the local forces in Australia and elsewhere not only see our standard of work etc. but to have an opportunity of doing joint exercises etc., and getting in touch generally, as a prelude to some more permanent system of interchange and co-operation; (c) to give our own ships more experience of long distance cruises and of waters practically unvisited by the Navy for nearly 20 years…
In general the cruise was welcomed with open arms around the empire. When Hood made port calls her decks were packed with eager spectators.
I'll post some links containing more information and photographs later.
Source: I presented a conference paper about the cultural history of HMS Hood.
Hmm someone doing NCEA level 1 History?