why is ned kelly a hero

Ned Kelly is considered a hero by many because he symbolizes resistance against oppression and stands as a folk hero who challenged the authority of the English establishment in colonial Australia. He was seen as a bush-loving rebel who fought for justice for his family and other marginalized settlers who faced discrimination and hardship. Despite being an outlaw and convicted for killing police officers, Kelly garnered widespread public support in his time; for example, a petition against his execution collected 60,000 signatures, representing a significant portion of Melbourne's population. He is also remembered for acts of bravery, such as saving a boy from drowning as a child, and for his distinctive iron armor used during a famous shootout with police. His story embodies qualities often associated with Australian identity: defiance of authority, loyalty to family, and fighting for one's beliefs, which has made him a lasting cultural icon and a symbol of the underdog fighting against injustice. However, perspectives on him vary: some see him as a criminal and murderer, while others see him as a heroic underdog who was fighting against police corruption and social inequality. His life story reflects a complex debate between viewing him as a villain or a hero, with interpretations shaped by historical and social contexts.