A Brief History of Australia

Abstract

This brief history of Australia begins with a chapter that places it in context, exploring the land and its people in broad brushstrokes. This is followed by a chapter on precontact Aboriginal culture based on the work of archaeologists and other prehistorians, as well as ethnographers who have spoken at length with contemporary Aboriginal peoples about their histories. The remainder of the book takes a largely chronological look at Australian history since the first documented sighting of the landmass by a European in the 17th century. From William Janszoon through Quentin Bryce, colonialism through gay rights, Australia’s political, economic, and social trends are explored in greater or lesser detail, depending on available resources and the interests of nonspecialist readers. In conjunction with the suggested reading list, three appendixes, a chronology, and extensive bibliography, A Brief History of Australia provides a comprehensive introduction to the country and its people