In some Aboriginal societies parents of marriageable girls played one man against another, although this was always a potentially dangerous game. Although most men had only one wife at a time, polygyny was considered both legitimate and good. The average number of wives in polygynous unions was 2 or 3.

Are Australian Aboriginals polygamous?

The Australian government is firmly against the idea, too. Those pushing for new laws have pointed out that polygamy unofficially exists in traditional Aboriginal communities in Australias Northern Territory - and that these relationships are recognized when the government grants welfare benefits.

Is polyamorous marriage legal in Australia?

Polygamy is not legally recognised in Australia. However, the offence of bigamy only applies to attempts to contract a legally recognised marriage; it does not apply to polygamous marriages where there is no attempt to gain recognition for the marriage under Australian law.

Did Aborigines fight each other?

Indigenous tribes often fought with each other rather than launch coordinated attacks against settlers.

Did Aboriginal tribes fight in ww2?

At least 1,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander soldiers served during World War I, and as many as 8,000 may have signed up during World War II.