In the rising tide of anger and resentment amongst the miners, a more militant leader, Peter Lalor, was
elected. In swift fashion, a military structure was assembled. Brigades were formed, and captains
were appointed. Licences were burned, and on 1 December at Bakery Hill, "The unhappy miners
held a meeting where at the Australian flag of independence was blessed and vows proffered for its
defence. With the 'Eureka oath' being sworn by Peter Lalor to the affirmanation of his fellow people, who
encamped themselves around the flag to resist further licence hunts and harassment by the
authorities.

What Was Happening In The Colony
Around The Time Of His Life
That Impacted On Their
Actions Or Choices?