American servicemen

• At the start of World War II, Australians were primarily loyal to England, reflecting their strong historical ties to the British Empire
• As the war progressed

  This loyalty was challenged
• By 1942, when Japan became a direct threat to Australia


  Australia sought military support from the United States
• This marked a significant shift in alliances and defense strategy
• Beginning in early 1942, American troops began arriving in Australia in large numbers
• By 1943, around 250,000 U.S. soldiers were stationed throughout Australia
• The presence of American troops was a major factor in the defense of Australia and the broader Pacific campaign
• American soldiers were perceived by Australians as

  Wealthy<|>Modern<|>Possessing the latest technology and goods
• This perception led to admiration but also created tensions
• The presence of American troops led to several clashes between American and Australian soldiers and involving civilians
• Social tensions

  • Differences in pay
  • Resources
  • Social interactions
  • Relationships with Australian women
• Major brawls occasionally erupted, highlighting the cultural and social friction between the two groups
• From 1942 onwards, nearly one million American troops were either based in or on leave in Australian cities
• Many American soldiers saw Australia as a paradise compared to the horrors of war in the Pacific
• While Australians generally welcomed the Americans, Australian servicemen often resented their better pay and appeal to local women
• Americans: 'The phrase "over-sexed, overpaid, and over here" became a common complaint'
• The "Battle of Brisbane" in late 1942 highlighted extreme rivalry, with violent outbreaks between Australian and American servicemen
• A brawl in Brisbane involved up to 5,000 people, resulting in the destruction of the Post Exchange, the death of an Australian serviceman, and hundreds of injuries, some from gunfire

  26 November 1942
• The following night, more clashes occurred, but increased security and military intervention helped limit further violence
• Censorship on both sides controlled the reporting of these incidents