The patriot band : the school cadets from their evolution to the Great War : thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in History at Massey University

Abstract

The writing of history consists in the complementary activities of analysis and reflection. A study of the school cadets in New Zealand from their evolution in the old established colleges till 1914, provides an opportunity for both these activities to be attempted through the medium of a relatively small but highly defined topic. As an institution, the cadets provide an interesting study in themselves, for by minutely observing the specialised activities of a large section of New Zealand society, namely its children together with those especially concerned with the cadets through education or defence, it is possible to gain a detailed understanding and insight into their beliefs and assumptions. The activities and attitudes of teachers, concerned military men, articulate members of the general public and where possible pupils, will each provide a slightly different vantage point from which to reconstruct this picture. [From Introduction]