Military history Origin of the term digger

Origins of the term 'Digger'

Article by Neil Smith

The First Diggers

Like Anzac, the term Digger is well known in Australia and overseas. Even for Australians who have no military connection, the word is still familiar and widely employed by the media to report news of Australian soldiers, especially in places of conflict, although the term can embrace all soldiers and others in the Australian Defence Force. The genesis of the word has been the subject of often intense debate for over eight decades. Let’s see if the origin of the term can be narrowed down and even identified.

Lieutenant Colonel Neil C SMITH, AM - Mostly Unsung Military History Research and Publications
Lieutenant Colonel Neil Smith spent 24 years in the Army throughout Australia and overseas including active service in Vietnam and Explosive Ordnance Disposal duties for which he was decorated with the Order of Australia. Since resigning 20 years ago Neil and his wife Sylvie have developed Mostly Unsung, a unique military history research business using resources in London and around Australia.

//i.findmypast.com.au/websites/au/anzac/others/neil-smith-120.jpg Neil has researched and compiled scores of publications and articles on servicemen and women, various regiments and conflicts ranging from the British garrison in Australia through the Boer War, both World Wars and post 1945 conflicts such as the Malayan Emergency. He is well known for his media and documentary work and frequently provides presentations on military history, where the emphasis is always on those who served.

For those who seek to trace the service of their military ancestors in Australia and Great Britain, Neil Smith and Mostly Unsung will have the solution.