The evolution of the RAS (Royal Agricultural Society) fits into the wider Western trend of promoting nationalism, progress and technology through exhibitory venues, which first became popular in the 1850s. Various types of fairs, from local agricultural shows to Worlds Fairs, were used as instruments of hegemony to support imperialism, to promote burgeoning capitalist endeavours, and to shape class identities, social spaces and public spaces. Visual culture and the art of display became essential in defining aspects of national distinction. Colonial nations in particular, such as Canada and Australia, were attempting to develop distinct national identities to differentiate themselves from British imperial power. Agricultural fairs in North America originated at the beginning of the nineteenth century and were devoted to educating practising framers in ways of improving their cultivation of livestock and crops through the use of various technologies.

In 1822, the RAS was created on the premise that was a dire need in Australia for the development of improved farming skills to better support growing urban populations and export markets. Organisations based on agricultural improvement, which were popular in Britain, provided camaraderie as well as political and financial support for their members. Once transferred to the colonies, in this case, Australia, they played an integral part in converting and organising land for colonial purposes.