What is the number of troopers mentioned in the song Waltzing Matilda?

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By Kristy Tolley

An Australian Folk Song

Waltzing Matilda is one of the most iconic songs in Australian history. It is a folk song that tells the story of a swagman who steals a sheep and is pursued by troopers. The song has become a symbol of Australian identity and is often played at cultural events such as Anzac Day and Australia Day celebrations.

The Story of Waltzing Matilda

The story of Waltzing Matilda is set in the Australian outback during the late 1800s. It tells the story of a swagman who takes a sheep from a property and boils it in a billabong (a waterhole). When the property owner and three troopers arrive to investigate, the swagman jumps into the billabong and drowns himself rather than face arrest. The song is a lament for the swagman and his fate.

The Lyrics of the Song

Waltzing Matilda is composed of four verses and a chorus. Each verse tells a part of the story, and the chorus is a call to action for the listener to join in and sing. The lyrics of the song are rich with Australian slang and imagery, making it a popular choice for those wanting to learn about Australian culture.

The Verse Containing the Troopers

The verse containing the troopers is the third verse of the song. It goes:

"Down came a jumbuck to drink at the billabong
Up jumped the swagman and grabbed him with glee
And he sang as he shoved that jumbuck in his tucker bag
You’ll come a-waltzing Matilda with me"

The troopers are mentioned in the following verse:

"Up rode the squatter, mounted on his thoroughbred
Down came the troopers, one, two, three
Whose that jolly jumbuck you’ve got in your tucker bag?
You’ll come a-waltzing Matilda with me"

The Significance of the Troopers

The troopers in Waltzing Matilda represent the authority figures of the time. They were responsible for maintaining order in the outback and were often seen as the enforcers of the law. The presence of the troopers in the song adds tension and drama to the story and highlights the conflict between the swagman and the authorities.

The Debate on the Trooper Count

There is some debate about the number of troopers mentioned in Waltzing Matilda. Some versions of the song have three troopers, while others have four. The reason for this discrepancy is not known, but it has become a point of contention for some people.

Historical Context of the Song

Waltzing Matilda was written by Banjo Paterson in 1895, during a time when Australia was undergoing significant social and economic changes. The song was inspired by the shearers’ strike of 1894 and reflects the struggles of the working class against the wealthy landowners.

The Role of Troopers in Australian History

The troopers played an important role in Australian history. They were responsible for maintaining law and order in the colonies and were often involved in conflicts with indigenous Australians. The troopers were also used to break up strikes and protests, which led to tensions between the working class and the authorities.

Other Folk Songs with Troopers

Waltzing Matilda is not the only folk song to feature troopers. There are many other songs that use the trope of the authority figure chasing after the rogue protagonist. These songs are often seen as a commentary on the power dynamics of society and the struggle between the individual and the state.

Popularity of Waltzing Matilda

Waltzing Matilda is one of the most popular songs in Australia. It has been covered by many artists and has become a symbol of Australian identity. The song is often played at sporting events and cultural festivals, and is a source of national pride for many Australians.

The Legacy of Banjo Paterson

Banjo Paterson is one of Australia’s most famous poets. He wrote many poems and songs that captured the spirit of the Australian outback and the struggles of its people. His legacy lives on today through his poetry and his contribution to Australian culture.

Conclusion: The Troopers in Waltzing Matilda

The troopers in Waltzing Matilda are an important part of the song’s narrative. They represent the authority figures of the time and add tension and drama to the story. While there is some debate about the number of troopers mentioned in the song, their presence highlights the power dynamics of society and the struggle between the individual and the state. Waltzing Matilda remains a beloved and iconic song in Australian culture, and its legacy continues to resonate with Australians today.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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