Technologies of nationalism: First World War commemoration and New Zealand’s Gallipoli exhibition

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper examines the relationship between First World War Centenary commemoration and state-sponsored nationalism in New Zealand. In the national museum’s Gallipoli exhibition, commemoration shifts from its traditional emphasis upon military sacrifice for the nation. Film-related special effects technology promotes individual affective identification with suffering and loss, but also extolls the ingenious achievements and talents of both New Zealand soldiers historically, and Gallipoli’s producers. National identity is aligned with state promotion of creative and technological innovation as central to economic growth. The national myth-making of Gallipoli locates a technologically sophisticated modern New Zealand in the historical experience of the War.