Our team's case revolved around a complex definition of peace. They suggested that peace is an ever-evolving concept and that its definition can change depending on the context, culture and time period. This allowed our team to prove that, even if a culture's definition of peace doesn't fit contemporary ethical standards, history can always be made for peace in the context of that time, as that culture understands it.

First speaker Ava M proved this argument through an analysis of a number of case studies thoughout time, including Ancient Egyptians whose recordings defined peace through the concept of Maat, Aboriginal peoples whose oral histories defined peace through an absence of conflict, Ancient Historians whose writings made criticisms of war, and the Christian Crusaders whose first person accounts defined peace through the lens of their own spiritual wellbeing.

Second Speaker Olivia M further developed her teams' case through an analaysis of a cultural shift within the 20th Century, arguing that it was during this time that our world's definition of peace became more universal, and more focused around 'peace for all'. She proved this through an analysis of trends within the discipline of historical study such as 'History From Below' and historical revisionism.

Third speaker Meghan W was able to defend against the affirmative teams' assertion that peace must be defined solely as an absence of disorder - reaffirming through rebuttal and summary that history can be made for peace, because the past has always been studied for the purpose of promoting peace as it is understood in that context. She was also able to prove that her team had a stronger reading of the topic itself, clarifying that the topic required them to debate the intent of history as opposed to the impact of it.

Our team advisor (also known as a silent fourth speaker) Holly B supported the team through her construction of our complex definitions, and her well supported rebuttals.

We are pleased to share that in a unanimous vote by the panel of adjudicators, our team won the debate and have been crowned Grand Champions of the 2022 season. Congratulations to the whole team.

We would also like to acknowledge team members Orlaith B, Oreoluwa A, and Molly P, who have provided support to the team throughout the whole season. They are congratulated on their contributions to the team.

We would also like to thank all the St Patrick's College staff who have supported team thoughout their journey, including their previous history debating coach Miss Brown and history teachers Mr Duncan, Ms Aboud and Ms Barry.

Laura Bryannie - Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator