Welcome Sweet Peace: Returning home after the Great War
The Armistice of 11 November 1918 that signalled the end of the Great War also heralded the commencement of considerable economic, political, and social upheaval in all belligerent states. New Zealand was no exception. The country to which the nation's service personnel returned was not the one they had left in 1914 full of patriotism and imperial adventure.
While Armistice celebrations and the demobilisation of servicemen and women was cause for great joy, the general immediate post-war spirit was characterised by war-weariness, relief, and deep uncertainty.
The nationwide Armistice celebrations were tempered by the devastating influenza pandemic that left 8,600 dead (almost half the number of New Zealanders killed during the war). Battles waged over prohibition and the repatriation and rehabilitation of servicemen and women further unsettled this promised period of peace and prosperity.
Welcome Sweet Peace: Returning home after the Great War charts the development of the post-war settlement from the euphoric early days following Armistice through to the social, cultural and political upheavals of the early 1920s. The exhibition demonstrates not only the diverse ways in which the end of hostilities were commemorated, but also highlights how New Zealand was radically transformed during and after the Great War.
Celebrating the end of the Great War in Cathedral Square.
This pandemic remains New Zealand’s worst natural disaster.
This product claimed to miraculously alleviate the effects of influenza.
A referendum helped New Zealand decide whether to introduce prohibition.
The RSA ensured that the Prohibition referendum was defeated.
About 20,000 people assembled to celebrate the 'official' end of the war.
Citizens of New Zealand's largest city celebrate the beginning of new era of peace.
Many New Zealand soldiers returned with British wives.
Wanganui gave its returning Māori troops an emotional welcome.
Returning to civilian life.
Many returning servicemen found work on the land.
The Prince travelled the length of the country to thank New Zealanders for supporting Britain in the Great War.
Memorials to the Great War were erected throughout New Zealand.
