History of the Aborigines

Australian Aborigines migrated from Asia about 30,000 years ago. There are 500 to 600 different groups but they all have one thing in common strong spiritual beliefs. These spiritual beliefs are shown through their storytelling and art. They believe there is a close bond between humans and the land. Aborigines believe dreamtime was the beginning of the world. During this time they believe their ancestors rose out of various parts of the earth including the rocks and waters. Unlike most religions the Aborigines do not set themselves above nature. They believe some of the Ancestors changed into things in nature and still live there. Storytelling informs aboriginals of the vibrant cultural life. Songs illustrate the Dreamtime and other tales of the land. Aboriginal art includes sculpture, bark and rock paintings, and also baskets and beadwork. Aboriginal music is often recognized for its most famous instrument, the didgeridoo. A wind instrument typically made from bamboo, it is about five feet long and produces a low, vibrating hum. Aborigines use didgeridoos in formal ceremonies and in events such as sunsets, circumcisions, and funerals.