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John Gorton excelled academically at Geelong Grammar School, consistently achieving top marks.
Answer: False
Explanation: The provided information indicates that while Gorton was active in sports at Geelong Grammar, his academic performance was not exceptional; he notably failed the Intermediate Certificate on his initial attempt.
Despite initial social challenges at Oxford, John Gorton's rowing success led to his election into exclusive clubs.
Answer: True
Explanation: Gorton's participation and success in rowing at Oxford significantly enhanced his social integration, leading to invitations to exclusive university clubs.
Which of the following describes John Gorton's academic performance during his secondary education?
Answer: He struggled academically and failed his Intermediate Certificate on the first attempt.
Explanation: John Gorton's academic record at secondary school was not exceptional; he failed the Intermediate Certificate on his first attempt.
What was a key aspect of John Gorton's experience at Oxford University?
Answer: His rowing success improved his social standing and led to invitations to exclusive clubs.
Explanation: Gorton's participation and success in rowing at Oxford significantly enhanced his social integration, leading to invitations to exclusive university clubs.
John Gorton was commissioned as a pilot in the RAAF after initially being considered too old for pilot training.
Answer: True
Explanation: Despite being initially deemed too old for pilot training at age 29, John Gorton was accepted and commissioned as a pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II.
During World War II, John Gorton sustained severe facial injuries, including a mutilated nose, from a crash landing.
Answer: True
Explanation: A crash landing in 1942 resulted in severe facial injuries for John Gorton, including a mutilated nose and broken cheekbones, sustained from impact with the aircraft's gun sight.
During his evacuation from Singapore, John Gorton survived a torpedo attack on his transport ship by a Japanese submarine.
Answer: True
Explanation: While evacuating Singapore in February 1942, the vessel carrying John Gorton was torpedoed; he survived by spending nearly a day adrift in a liferaft before rescue.
What significant injury did John Gorton sustain during his World War II service?
Answer: Severe facial injuries, including a mutilated nose, from a crash landing.
Explanation: A crash landing in 1942 resulted in severe facial injuries for John Gorton, including a mutilated nose and broken cheekbones, sustained from impact with the aircraft's gun sight.
How was John Gorton rescued after his evacuation ship from Singapore was torpedoed?
Answer: He was picked up from a liferaft by HMAS Ballarat.
Explanation: After his evacuation ship was torpedoed, John Gorton was rescued from a liferaft by HMAS Ballarat.
John Gorton is unique among Australian Prime Ministers for having previously served in the Australian Senate before assuming the office of Prime Minister.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton holds the distinction of being the first and only Australian Prime Minister to have served in the Senate prior to holding the nation's highest executive office.
John Gorton's first political role after military service was as a Member of Parliament in the House of Representatives.
Answer: False
Explanation: Contrary to the statement, Gorton's initial political engagement post-military service was at the local government level, serving on the Kerang Shire Council.
John Gorton's 1946 welcome-home speech urged Australians to engage with the global community as part of a family of nations.
Answer: True
Explanation: In his 1946 welcome-home address, John Gorton articulated a vision for Australia's role in the world, emphasizing global interconnectedness and mutual dependence.
John Gorton entered federal politics by being elected directly to the House of Representatives after his local council service.
Answer: False
Explanation: Following his service on the Kerang Shire Council, John Gorton entered federal politics by being elected to the Australian Senate in 1949, not directly to the House of Representatives.
As a Senator, John Gorton was a staunch anti-communist who opposed recognizing the People's Republic of China.
Answer: True
Explanation: During his tenure as a Senator, John Gorton adopted a strong anti-communist stance and advocated against the recognition of the People's Republic of China.
John Gorton's handling of the VIP aircraft affair enhanced his political standing by demonstrating secrecy and evasion.
Answer: False
Explanation: Gorton's transparent handling of the VIP aircraft affair boosted his public profile and positioned him favorably for leadership, rather than relying on secrecy.
What unique distinction did John Gorton hold regarding his service in the Australian Parliament before becoming Prime Minister?
Answer: He was the first and only Prime Minister to have served in the Australian Senate prior to holding the office.
Explanation: John Gorton is distinguished as the only Australian Prime Minister to have previously served as a Senator before becoming the nation's leader.
What was John Gorton's initial foray into politics after returning from military service?
Answer: He was elected to the Kerang Shire Council.
Explanation: John Gorton's first political engagement after his military service was his election to the Kerang Shire Council in 1946.
What central theme was emphasized in John Gorton's 1946 welcome-home speech?
Answer: The importance of honoring sacrifices by building a better, interconnected world.
Explanation: In his 1946 welcome-home address, John Gorton articulated a vision for Australia's role in the world, emphasizing global interconnectedness and mutual dependence.
How did John Gorton enter federal parliamentary politics?
Answer: He was preselected for and elected to the Senate in the 1949 federal election.
Explanation: John Gorton entered federal politics by being elected to the Australian Senate in 1949, following his service on the Kerang Shire Council.
How did John Gorton's handling of the VIP aircraft affair impact his political career?
Answer: It boosted his public profile and positioned him as a leadership contender through transparency.
Explanation: Gorton's transparent handling of the VIP aircraft affair boosted his public profile and positioned him favorably for leadership, rather than relying on secrecy.
John Gorton's first ministerial appointment was as Minister for Defence.
Answer: False
Explanation: John Gorton's initial ministerial role was as the Minister for the Navy, a position he held for over five years.
During Gorton's tenure as Minister for the Navy, the Royal Australian Navy acquired significant assets, including Australian-built frigates and Oberon-class submarines.
Answer: True
Explanation: As Minister for the Navy, Gorton oversaw the acquisition of key naval assets, including Australian-built frigates and the ordering of Oberon-class submarines.
As Minister for Education and Science, John Gorton expanded federal government involvement by increasing university scholarships and funding.
Answer: True
Explanation: In his capacity as Minister for Education and Science, Gorton significantly increased federal funding for education, including expanding university scholarships.
John Gorton served as Minister for the Navy for over five years, making him the longest-serving holder of that portfolio.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton's tenure as Minister for the Navy exceeded five years, establishing him as the longest-serving individual in that ministerial position.
What portfolio did John Gorton hold in his first ministerial appointment?
Answer: Minister for the Navy
Explanation: John Gorton's initial ministerial role was as the Minister for the Navy, a position he held for over five years.
Which significant naval assets were acquired or ordered during Gorton's time as Minister for the Navy?
Answer: Submarines, frigates, and helicopters.
Explanation: As Minister for the Navy, Gorton oversaw the acquisition of key naval assets, including Australian-built frigates and the ordering of Oberon-class submarines.
As Minister for Education and Science, what was a key initiative undertaken by John Gorton?
Answer: Introducing federal funding for science laboratories in non-government schools.
Explanation: In his capacity as Minister for Education and Science, Gorton significantly increased federal funding for education, including introducing federal funding for science laboratories in non-government schools.
John Gorton served as the 19th Prime Minister of Australia, holding office from 1968 to 1971.
Answer: True
Explanation: Sir John Grey Gorton served as the 19th Prime Minister of Australia from 1968 to 1971, leading the Liberal Party.
John Gorton believed Australia should maintain strong, dependent foreign policy ties with Britain and the United States throughout his career.
Answer: False
Explanation: John Gorton advocated for an independent Australian foreign policy, seeking to reduce reliance on traditional ties with Britain and the United States.
John Gorton became Prime Minister following the disappearance and presumed drowning of Prime Minister Harold Holt.
Answer: True
Explanation: The vacancy created by Harold Holt's disappearance in December 1967 led to a Liberal Party leadership contest, which John Gorton won, becoming Prime Minister in January 1968.
John Gorton's public image was characterized by a formal, traditional political demeanor, similar to his predecessors.
Answer: False
Explanation: Gorton cultivated a distinct public image as a 'man of the people' with a 'larrikin' streak, diverging from the formal styles of his predecessors.
John Gorton's government pursued centralist policies, increasing the federal government's role and causing friction with state leaders.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Gorton government's centralist approach, which aimed to strengthen federal authority, generated significant political friction with state leaders.
John Gorton's government initiated the withdrawal of Australian troops from Vietnam.
Answer: True
Explanation: While continuing Australia's commitment, the Gorton government commenced the process of withdrawing troops from Vietnam amidst growing public opposition to the war.
John Gorton co-sponsored a motion in federal parliament to decriminalise homosexuality, acknowledging its potential harm and blackmail issues.
Answer: True
Explanation: In 1973, John Gorton co-sponsored a motion in the House of Representatives advocating for the decriminalisation of homosexuality, citing concerns regarding the societal harms of existing laws, such as blackmail.
The "Gorton Manner" in foreign policy emphasized Australia's alignment with British imperial interests.
Answer: False
Explanation: The "Gorton Manner" in foreign policy signified a departure from traditional alignment with British interests, advocating instead for a more independent Australian foreign policy.
John Gorton's centralist policies led to significant friction with powerful state Liberal leaders, including Henry Bolte of Victoria.
Answer: True
Explanation: Gorton's preference for centralist policies, which augmented federal power, created notable friction with prominent state leaders, such as Henry Bolte of Victoria.
John Gorton actively supported and fostered the Australian film industry during his premiership.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Gorton government demonstrated a commitment to the arts by actively supporting and fostering the growth of the Australian film industry.
John Gorton supported no-fault divorce and voted against an amendment that complicated divorce requirements based on separation.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton expressed support for no-fault divorce and opposed legislative amendments that would have imposed more complex requirements related to separation.
The Copyright Act of 1968 was passed during John Gorton's government to modernize intellectual property laws.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Copyright Act of 1968 was enacted during Gorton's premiership, updating Australia's intellectual property legislation to align with contemporary standards.
A proposal for a nuclear power plant at Jervis Bay was considered during John Gorton's time as Prime Minister.
Answer: True
Explanation: During John Gorton's prime ministership, the potential development of a nuclear power plant at Jervis Bay was explored as an energy option.
The Australian Industry Development Corporation (AIDC) was established to provide finance and advice for Australian industries.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Australian Industry Development Corporation (AIDC) was created under the Gorton government to support domestic industries through financial assistance and advisory services.
John Gorton's government asserted federal control over submerged lands adjacent to Australia's coastline through a new policy.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Gorton government implemented a policy asserting Commonwealth ownership of the offshore seabed, thereby consolidating federal jurisdiction over coastal submerged lands.
The Metric Conversion Act of 1970 was enacted during John Gorton's government to manage Australia's transition to the metric system.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Metric Conversion Act of 1970, passed during Gorton's premiership, established the framework for Australia's national transition to the metric system of measurement.
The 1969 federal election significantly increased the Coalition government's majority in the House of Representatives.
Answer: False
Explanation: The 1969 federal election resulted in a reduction of the Coalition government's majority in the House of Representatives, indicating a swing against them.
The Gorton government established the Australia Council for the Arts, demonstrating a commitment to supporting artistic activities.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Gorton government established the Australia Council for the Arts, reflecting a policy direction aimed at supporting and promoting artistic endeavors across the nation.
John Gorton was known for his strong support of Indigenous land rights during his political career.
Answer: False
Explanation: Historical accounts indicate that John Gorton held conservative views on Indigenous land rights and did not actively support them during his political career.
John Gorton's government introduced legislation to decriminalise homosexual acts nationwide.
Answer: False
Explanation: While John Gorton co-sponsored a motion to decriminalise homosexual acts, his government did not introduce nationwide legislation, as such matters fell under state jurisdiction at the time.
What was John Gorton's approach to Australia's relationship with Britain and the United States during his political career?
Answer: He believed Australia should pursue an independent foreign policy, distinct from traditional ties.
Explanation: John Gorton advocated for an independent Australian foreign policy, seeking to reduce reliance on traditional ties with Britain and the United States.
Under what circumstances did John Gorton become Prime Minister?
Answer: He succeeded Harold Holt after Holt's disappearance and won the subsequent Liberal leadership contest.
Explanation: The vacancy created by Harold Holt's disappearance in December 1967 led to a Liberal Party leadership contest, which John Gorton won, becoming Prime Minister in January 1968.
What characterized John Gorton's personal style and public image as Prime Minister?
Answer: A populist 'man of the people' image with a 'larrikin' streak.
Explanation: Gorton cultivated a distinct public image as a 'man of the people' with a 'larrikin' streak, diverging from the formal styles of his predecessors.
What domestic policy approach defined the Gorton government, leading to political friction?
Answer: Centralization, strengthening the federal government's role.
Explanation: The Gorton government's centralist approach, which aimed to strengthen federal authority, generated significant political friction with state leaders.
How did the Gorton government address Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War?
Answer: It continued the involvement but began the process of troop withdrawal.
Explanation: While continuing Australia's commitment, the Gorton government commenced the process of withdrawing troops from Vietnam amidst growing public opposition to the war.
What significant social reform did John Gorton co-sponsor in the House of Representatives in 1973?
Answer: The decriminalisation of homosexuality.
Explanation: In 1973, John Gorton co-sponsored a motion in the House of Representatives advocating for the decriminalisation of homosexuality, citing concerns regarding the societal harms of existing laws, such as blackmail.
The leadership challenge against John Gorton in March 1971 was initiated by William McMahon.
Answer: False
Explanation: The leadership challenge that led to Gorton's resignation in March 1971 was initiated by Defence Minister Malcolm Fraser, not William McMahon.
John Gorton resigned from the Liberal Party primarily because he disagreed with the party's stance on economic policy.
Answer: False
Explanation: Gorton resigned from the Liberal Party in 1975 due to his opposition to Malcolm Fraser's leadership and actions, rather than disagreements over economic policy.
During the 1975 constitutional crisis, John Gorton supported Malcolm Fraser's actions in blocking supply.
Answer: False
Explanation: John Gorton actively opposed Malcolm Fraser's actions during the 1975 constitutional crisis, publicly denouncing the blocking of supply and appearing in advertisements supporting the Labor Party.
Who succeeded John Gorton as Prime Minister after his resignation?
Answer: William McMahon
Explanation: William McMahon succeeded John Gorton as Prime Minister following Gorton's resignation in March 1971.
What action did John Gorton take after being replaced as Prime Minister?
Answer: He became Minister for Defence under the new Prime Minister.
Explanation: Following his resignation as Prime Minister, Gorton did not immediately retire from federal politics; he subsequently served as Minister for Defence under Prime Minister William McMahon.
Why did John Gorton resign from the Liberal Party in 1975?
Answer: He opposed Malcolm Fraser's leadership style and actions.
Explanation: Gorton resigned from the Liberal Party in 1975 due to his opposition to Malcolm Fraser's leadership and actions, rather than disagreements over economic policy.
How did John Gorton participate during the 1975 constitutional crisis?
Answer: He denounced Fraser's actions and appeared in advertisements favouring Labor.
Explanation: John Gorton actively opposed Malcolm Fraser's actions during the 1975 constitutional crisis, publicly denouncing the blocking of supply and appearing in advertisements supporting the Labor Party.
After resigning as Prime Minister, John Gorton immediately retired from federal politics.
Answer: False
Explanation: Following his resignation as Prime Minister, Gorton did not immediately retire from federal politics; he subsequently served as Minister for Defence under Prime Minister William McMahon.
After leaving parliament, John Gorton worked as a political commentator, writing and recording radio broadcasts.
Answer: True
Explanation: Post-parliamentary career, John Gorton engaged in public discourse as a political commentator, producing numerous radio broadcasts between 1977 and 1981.
In his post-retirement radio broadcasts, John Gorton expressed support for the decriminalisation of marijuana.
Answer: True
Explanation: Among his expressed views in post-retirement radio broadcasts, John Gorton voiced support for the decriminalisation of marijuana.
John Gorton died in 1995 at the age of 84.
Answer: False
Explanation: John Gorton passed away in 2002 at the age of 90, not in 1995 at age 84.
John Gorton was appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1977.
Answer: True
Explanation: In recognition of his service, John Gorton received several honours, including appointment as a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1977.
John Gorton contested the Liberal leadership after William McMahon resigned in 1972 but finished last in the ballot.
Answer: True
Explanation: Following William McMahon's resignation as Liberal leader in 1972, John Gorton contested the leadership but secured the lowest vote count in the ballot.
John Gorton supported the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) in his post-retirement radio broadcasts.
Answer: False
Explanation: In his post-retirement radio broadcasts, John Gorton expressed opposition to the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS).
The general historical assessment of John Gorton's prime ministership is that he was one of Australia's greatest leaders.
Answer: False
Explanation: Historical assessments generally regard John Gorton as a significant transitional figure, but not consistently ranked among Australia's greatest Prime Ministers.
What role did John Gorton play after retiring from parliamentary politics?
Answer: He served as a political commentator, writing and recording radio broadcasts.
Explanation: Post-parliamentary career, John Gorton engaged in public discourse as a political commentator, producing numerous radio broadcasts between 1977 and 1981.
Which of the following views did John Gorton express in his post-retirement radio broadcasts?
Answer: Opposition to Aboriginal land rights.
Explanation: Among his expressed views in post-retirement radio broadcasts, John Gorton voiced opposition to Aboriginal land rights.
What was the general historical assessment of John Gorton's prime ministership?
Answer: Historians view him as a transitional figure who showed potential but fell short of greatness.
Explanation: Historical assessments generally regard John Gorton as a significant transitional figure, but not consistently ranked among Australia's greatest Prime Ministers.
Uncertainty regarding John Gorton's precise place of birth has raised questions about his potential parliamentary eligibility under Section 44 of the Constitution.
Answer: True
Explanation: Ambiguities surrounding John Gorton's birth circumstances, particularly concerning his birthplace in New Zealand, have led to discussions about potential ineligibility under Section 44 of the Australian Constitution.
John Gorton's parents were not married at the time of his birth, partly due to his father's existing marital status.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton was born out of wedlock, as his father was unable to divorce his first wife, meaning Gorton's parents were not married at the time of his birth.
John Gorton had three children from his first marriage to Bettina Brown.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton's first marriage was to Bettina Brown, with whom he had three children: Joanna, Michael, and Robin.
John Gorton was a devoutly religious man who frequently cited his faith in parliamentary speeches.
Answer: False
Explanation: Sources suggest Gorton was not a devoutly religious man and did not frequently cite his faith in parliamentary speeches; his religious affiliation was nominal at best.
John Gorton was married twice. His second wife was Nancy Home.
Answer: True
Explanation: John Gorton was married twice; his second wife was Nancy Home, whom he married in 1993.
What potential constitutional issue arose from John Gorton's birth circumstances?
Answer: His birth outside Australia might have made him ineligible under Section 44 of the Constitution.
Explanation: Ambiguities surrounding John Gorton's birth in New Zealand raised questions about his eligibility for federal parliamentary office under Section 44 of the Australian Constitution.
How did John Gorton's parents' marital status impact his family background?
Answer: His father's inability to divorce his first wife meant Gorton was born out of wedlock.
Explanation: John Gorton was born out of wedlock because his father was unable to obtain a divorce from his first wife, impacting Gorton's family background.
John Gorton was married twice. Who was his second wife?
Answer: Nancy Home
Explanation: John Gorton's second wife was Nancy Home, whom he married in 1993.