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Australia: A History
How an ancient land became a great democracy. Longlisted for Best Non Fiction in the Indie Book Awards 2026 'Tony Abbott should be congratulated ... This history of Australia is vivid, readable, provocative' Geoffrey Blainey, historian 'I think it's very good' Tom Holland, historian Australia is one of the world's great success a land long hidden from outsiders, chosen as a convict dumping ground, where - since 1788 - people from many backgrounds have built one of the freest, fairest and most prosperous countries on earth. By the standards of a harsher time, the early governors tried to respect the original inhabitants and to encourage the convict outcasts of the British Isles to make a new start to a better life. This Indigenous heritage, British foundation and immigrant character have shaped the land of the 'fair go' especially for those willing to 'have a go'. It's not perfect, even now, yet mostly we have a history to be proud of. Within a century of settlement, Australia had not only the world's highest standard of living but had become a global pioneer for democratic freedoms such as the secret ballot, the payment of MPs and voting rights for women. A country largely created by settlement and negotiation has evolved from 'White Australia' at the time of federation into one of the world's most colour-blind societies and has managed the transition from an old 'Anglo' identity to a civic patriotism based on an overriding commitment to Australia and its values. This book is intended to give anyone interested - as every Australian should be - an account of our past that's positive, while not oblivious to our mistakes and imperfections as a nation. If to be an Australian is still to have won the lottery of life, the history that's produced us is surely something to savour. Now a major TV documentary available to stream at Sky News Australia. PRAISE 'Tony Abbott's book is inspired by love of country, yet he comes to grip with our flaws. This is a fresh, powerful, highly readable single-volume history of Australia that deserves a wide audience' Paul Kelly, editor-at-large, The Australian 'Scholarly researched, scrupulously fair-minded and very engagingly written, this is big narrative history at its best. It explains why Australia is such a wonderfully unique place, and why history is all the better when written by those who themselves helped make it' - Andrew Roberts, author, Walking with Destiny 'Not quite the "white armband" version of history I was expecting in the first half, nor a "Liberal Party highlights package" in the second half. I enjoyed reading it' - Peter FitzSimons, author, Kokoda This is an immensely readable account of how - as I frequently call it - the "Australian Achievement" has been built' - Hon John Howard OM AC, former prime minister of Australia 'Tony Abbott's latest book is a powerful antidote to the poison of little and bad history ... we have much to be thankful for and to build on' Hon John Anderson AC, former deputy prime minister of Australia and leader of the National Party 'The former prime minister has done a good job with A History' Frank Bongiorno, historian 'if you have a serious interest in Australian history, the book will go on your shelves' Hon Kim Beazley AC, former deputy prime minister of Australia 'Tony Abbott has written with reverence and richness, bringing our nation's past, although both painful and proud, to life with striking clarity' Nova Peris OAM OLY, first Aboriginal-Australian Olympic gold medallist and former Labor senator 'This book is a compelling reminder of our inheritance, which gives us a reason to be proud of who we are and the country we've become' - Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, federal senator for Northern Territory 'Tony Abbott brings history to life in a way that is both enlightening and deeply engaging' Brett Lee, former Australian international cricketer 'This book helps us rediscover our past with hon
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 12, 2026
Australia: A History is a concise, one-volume, hard-covered book which charts the history of Australia, from 50,000 years ago when it was discovered by our Indigenous people, to the time of the First Fleet and on to more recent times. Its author, Tony Abbott is a former prime minister of Australia as well as a former journalist so you would expect the writing to be sharp, the narrative informative, which it is. There is a foreword by historian Geoffrey Blainey in which he describes the book as vivid, readable and provocative. More importantly, the book provides a balanced view of Australian history, not the one-sided, skewered view we often hear from our academics and teachers. Despite his conservative background, there are positive reviews from all sides of Australian politics. This book should be compulsory reading for all students of Australian history and recommended reading for those who want to cut through the misinformation so common in today’s academia and media.
December 29, 2025
the review will be mostly negative. i'll start with the good. abbott gives a great cursary look over of the last 250 years of Australias history. he lamely references fringe cultural wars as a need for this book: a positive view of settlement. who cares mate, anyone with a brain is turned off by tweets about how evil white settlers were. those nuts aren't going to read anything abott has to say.
through the scope of politics we explore all the big events and theres plenty of interesting tidbits. for example WA's famous attempted succession. the political context reveals a bit of a protest plebiscite with no teeth. they knew it was unconstitutional and not taken so seriously as the state government elected openly went to election against succession.
the bad. before abbott accuses me of being one of the 'intellectual elite' I am just a humble tradie, swing voter, who enjoys history. abbotts book is riddled with bias thats distasteful and hard to overcome. when his values are good - eg. volunteerism its easy to get over. when they arent eg stop venerating aboriginal culture his values are harder to dissever from the context.
the first 150 or so years of settlement no liberal party existed. yet ctrl F and you will see the word liberal appear more than any other word. our forefounders were so incredibly liberal that i liberally cant stand to hear the word liberal one more time.
abbott is no racist but certainly isnt a defender of aboriginal culture. Aboriginals 'settlers' came here over 10 000 years ago. he could've written over 40 000. but whats a few ten thousand really matter when it comes to historical accuracy.
if you're interested in how many days of lost labour we missed out on for certain years due to militant striking then his numbers are exact.
once we go post ww2 the book which swung between tolerable and enjoyable really becomes a hard slog. menzies and howard are in a two way tie for best pm of all time. apparently the reason howard lost in 07 was because he accomplished everything he wanted in his first terms, leaving nothing else to accomplish and spent too much of the public purse.
after 2000 there is no history and the book becomes a bitter recount of every slight. gillards lauded misogyny speech was a deflection. Turnbull is a 'harborside mansion owner' out of touch with moderates. human climate change is a hoax as evidenced by 1 large pre industrial hawksbury flood. mental illness corresponds with rising areligioness and to top it off Abott includes a quote by peadophile protector Pell.
the most interesting thing about the book is the revelation of abbott - the rhodes scholar. abott is competent at writing an essay. i can now reconcile this man with the shirt fronting onion eater afraid to appear on the lefty elite abc now. i dont disdain abbott. he seems down to earth and genuine about his values, kind of guy it'd be nice to chat with if politics doesn't come up. its a shame he couldnt seperate his personal biases for a better history but I dont regret reading this.
through the scope of politics we explore all the big events and theres plenty of interesting tidbits. for example WA's famous attempted succession. the political context reveals a bit of a protest plebiscite with no teeth. they knew it was unconstitutional and not taken so seriously as the state government elected openly went to election against succession.
the bad. before abbott accuses me of being one of the 'intellectual elite' I am just a humble tradie, swing voter, who enjoys history. abbotts book is riddled with bias thats distasteful and hard to overcome. when his values are good - eg. volunteerism its easy to get over. when they arent eg stop venerating aboriginal culture his values are harder to dissever from the context.
the first 150 or so years of settlement no liberal party existed. yet ctrl F and you will see the word liberal appear more than any other word. our forefounders were so incredibly liberal that i liberally cant stand to hear the word liberal one more time.
abbott is no racist but certainly isnt a defender of aboriginal culture. Aboriginals 'settlers' came here over 10 000 years ago. he could've written over 40 000. but whats a few ten thousand really matter when it comes to historical accuracy.
if you're interested in how many days of lost labour we missed out on for certain years due to militant striking then his numbers are exact.
once we go post ww2 the book which swung between tolerable and enjoyable really becomes a hard slog. menzies and howard are in a two way tie for best pm of all time. apparently the reason howard lost in 07 was because he accomplished everything he wanted in his first terms, leaving nothing else to accomplish and spent too much of the public purse.
after 2000 there is no history and the book becomes a bitter recount of every slight. gillards lauded misogyny speech was a deflection. Turnbull is a 'harborside mansion owner' out of touch with moderates. human climate change is a hoax as evidenced by 1 large pre industrial hawksbury flood. mental illness corresponds with rising areligioness and to top it off Abott includes a quote by peadophile protector Pell.
the most interesting thing about the book is the revelation of abbott - the rhodes scholar. abott is competent at writing an essay. i can now reconcile this man with the shirt fronting onion eater afraid to appear on the lefty elite abc now. i dont disdain abbott. he seems down to earth and genuine about his values, kind of guy it'd be nice to chat with if politics doesn't come up. its a shame he couldnt seperate his personal biases for a better history but I dont regret reading this.
December 2, 2025
How did a convict settlement in a distant country in 1788 become one of the world's success stories as a democratic country that believes in giving people 'a fair go' for those willing 'to have a go'?
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott presents a fresh look at Australian history, which focuses on the good, the bad and the ugly of past events.
Tony Abbott, a Rhodes Scholar and Federal Member of Warringah in the Australian Parliament from 1994 to 2019, also played a part in our history in recent times.
White settlers responsible for the Myall Creek massacre were put on trial for the deaths of Aboriginal men, women and children, who were considered 'British subjects'.
Aboriginal heritage, the British foundation and immigration have helped shape this nation - a history that Australians can be proud of, including being the first country to allow women to vote and the secret ballot.
This is a must-read for everyone interested in history, especially for school children who have been told for many years that Australia is a 'racist' nation.
A three-part documentary, Australia: A History, is now available on YouTube.
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott presents a fresh look at Australian history, which focuses on the good, the bad and the ugly of past events.
Tony Abbott, a Rhodes Scholar and Federal Member of Warringah in the Australian Parliament from 1994 to 2019, also played a part in our history in recent times.
White settlers responsible for the Myall Creek massacre were put on trial for the deaths of Aboriginal men, women and children, who were considered 'British subjects'.
Aboriginal heritage, the British foundation and immigration have helped shape this nation - a history that Australians can be proud of, including being the first country to allow women to vote and the secret ballot.
This is a must-read for everyone interested in history, especially for school children who have been told for many years that Australia is a 'racist' nation.
A three-part documentary, Australia: A History, is now available on YouTube.
November 26, 2025
I have learned and read about different pockets of history of Australia but never a complete book to bring it all together. Really enjoyed it and all history nerds will get something out of it. I love the concept of Australia being a young country buy an old democracy.
TA felt that history and current affairs started to merge for him around 2000, but for me it was once he became a political figure in the early 90s. From there I felt he becomes a lot more opinionated and less down the middle and started to lose me as a reader.
TA felt that history and current affairs started to merge for him around 2000, but for me it was once he became a political figure in the early 90s. From there I felt he becomes a lot more opinionated and less down the middle and started to lose me as a reader.
December 29, 2025
This is a refreshing take on the history of Australia. For too many years we have focussed on the evils of colonialism while ignoring the extraordinary achievements of our pioneers. Tony Abbott is in no way is an apologists for the crimes committed against the indigenous people, in fact he has outlined the crimes inflicted upon them in detail. He has also enlightened his readers as to the unique laws the British tried to practise in relation to their human rights. It was a serious crime of murder to kill an Aboriginal person, and the sentence was hanging. Unfortunately, he noted, too many escaped the noose and got away with their crimes.
Tony has done astonishing research for this book and he has made the information accessible to all who are interested in facts rather than the preconceived black armband view of this incredible country to which, it seems, the whole world want to emigrate. And he sees this success as a direct result of British law along with highly industrious, determined people who have largely maintained order and most importantly, a sense of humour.
Tony has done astonishing research for this book and he has made the information accessible to all who are interested in facts rather than the preconceived black armband view of this incredible country to which, it seems, the whole world want to emigrate. And he sees this success as a direct result of British law along with highly industrious, determined people who have largely maintained order and most importantly, a sense of humour.
January 14, 2026
More of a history of our democracy. Very interesting facts and figureheads explored and good to read a largely positive review of our great country.
Oh and if you expect hateful racism or glossing over the bad parts, think again. Tony is a big believer in civic nationalism, and all the multiculturalism that entails.
Oh and if you expect hateful racism or glossing over the bad parts, think again. Tony is a big believer in civic nationalism, and all the multiculturalism that entails.
December 30, 2025
A very refreshing recap of Australia’s history, with no excuses about our maltreatment of Aborigines and mistakes made by successive governments.
A must read for young Australians!
A must read for young Australians!
October 26, 2025
Former Liberal prime minister Tony Abbott has collected surprising endorsements for his history of Austalia: former Labor leaders Kim Beazley and Bill Shorten, Indigeneous former Labor senator Nova Peris (and more predictably Indigenous current Liberal senator Jacinta Nampijimpa Price), and republican fellow popular historian Peter FitzSimons.
I don't think the blurbs reflect just a capacity to maintain relationships across party lines. For its genre - history for non-historians - Abbott's book is I think pretty good. It reflects wide reading of the secondary sources on Australian history. The writing is clear, the narrative moves along nicely. He has an argument to make - more on which below - but admits evidence contrary to his perspective.
In an author's note Abbott is upfront about the reason for his book. It is to counter the 'black armband' view of Australia's history which emphasises its negatives, especially the destruction of pre-1788 tribal societies carried out by British colonists, but more broadly the critical stances taken by the Australian left since the 1960s.
At its core Abbott's argument is that we don't need to deny that things happened that are wrong by the standards of today, and sometimes wrong by the standards of the time, to believe that overall Australia's history is more good than bad.
By Western standards, Australia evolved in a surprisingly liberal way for a nation that began as a penal colony, adopted democratic institutions early and was relatively quick to broaden the franchise, despite occasional major economic downturns has mostly delivered relatively high living standards, and despite the white Australia policy that lasted a few generations evolved into a largely cooperative multi-ethnic and multicultural society.
In Abbott's summation, modern Australia is a 'country with an Indigenous heritage, a British foundation, and an immigrant character'.
Some odds and ends I did not know: by 1850 Melbourne had 3 daily newspapers (currently 2), more people arrived in Australia for the gold rush than as convicts, swimming or surfing in the sea was discouraged until the early 20th century, the first commercial sunscreen in the world was Australian in 1932, all adults during WW2 had to carry ID cards, as late as the 1960s RSL clubs wanted to ban Japanese vehicles from their car parks, and Arthur Calwell (most famous quote 'two Wongs don't make a White') studied Mandarin in his spare time. I was less surprised to learn that the value of imported tabacco and alcohol in 1852 exceeded the value of all British imports in 1850.
I don't think the blurbs reflect just a capacity to maintain relationships across party lines. For its genre - history for non-historians - Abbott's book is I think pretty good. It reflects wide reading of the secondary sources on Australian history. The writing is clear, the narrative moves along nicely. He has an argument to make - more on which below - but admits evidence contrary to his perspective.
In an author's note Abbott is upfront about the reason for his book. It is to counter the 'black armband' view of Australia's history which emphasises its negatives, especially the destruction of pre-1788 tribal societies carried out by British colonists, but more broadly the critical stances taken by the Australian left since the 1960s.
At its core Abbott's argument is that we don't need to deny that things happened that are wrong by the standards of today, and sometimes wrong by the standards of the time, to believe that overall Australia's history is more good than bad.
By Western standards, Australia evolved in a surprisingly liberal way for a nation that began as a penal colony, adopted democratic institutions early and was relatively quick to broaden the franchise, despite occasional major economic downturns has mostly delivered relatively high living standards, and despite the white Australia policy that lasted a few generations evolved into a largely cooperative multi-ethnic and multicultural society.
In Abbott's summation, modern Australia is a 'country with an Indigenous heritage, a British foundation, and an immigrant character'.
Some odds and ends I did not know: by 1850 Melbourne had 3 daily newspapers (currently 2), more people arrived in Australia for the gold rush than as convicts, swimming or surfing in the sea was discouraged until the early 20th century, the first commercial sunscreen in the world was Australian in 1932, all adults during WW2 had to carry ID cards, as late as the 1960s RSL clubs wanted to ban Japanese vehicles from their car parks, and Arthur Calwell (most famous quote 'two Wongs don't make a White') studied Mandarin in his spare time. I was less surprised to learn that the value of imported tabacco and alcohol in 1852 exceeded the value of all British imports in 1850.
December 21, 2025
Tony Abbott’s Australia: A History is not just a chronological record of events; it is a profound love letter to the nation. As a former Prime Minister, Abbott brings an insider’s nuance and a statesman’s perspective to the page, offering a narrative that is as intellectually rigorous as it is deeply patriotic.
A Balanced Reflection on the Australian Spirit.
What sets this work apart is its unwavering honesty. Abbott does not shy away from the "fails"—the policy missteps, the political upheavals, and the moments of national doubt. However, he balances these with our "wins," celebrating the grit, egalitarianism, and democratic stability that have defined the Australian project.
By viewing our history through the lens of political evolution, he successfully identifies the DNA of the Australian character:
* Resilience: How we navigated global conflicts and economic shifts.
* Practicality: The unique Australian approach to governance and law.
* Community: The "fair go" philosophy that underpins our social fabric.
Written with Respect and Insight.
Abbott writes with a palpable sense of respect for his predecessors on both sides of the aisle. He understands the weight of the office, and that empathy shines through when he describes the difficult choices faced by leaders from Barton to the modern era. His prose is clear, engaging, and devoid of the dry academic tone that often plagues historical texts.
"To understand where we are going, we must cherish where we have come from. This book is a testament to the belief that Australia is, and remains, a beacon of hope and a triumph of the human spirit."
Final Verdict.
Whether you are a political junkie or simply a proud Australian looking to understand the forces that shaped your home, this is essential reading. Tony Abbott has provided a sweeping, panoramic view of our past that manages to be both a critical analysis and a source of immense national pride.
A Balanced Reflection on the Australian Spirit.
What sets this work apart is its unwavering honesty. Abbott does not shy away from the "fails"—the policy missteps, the political upheavals, and the moments of national doubt. However, he balances these with our "wins," celebrating the grit, egalitarianism, and democratic stability that have defined the Australian project.
By viewing our history through the lens of political evolution, he successfully identifies the DNA of the Australian character:
* Resilience: How we navigated global conflicts and economic shifts.
* Practicality: The unique Australian approach to governance and law.
* Community: The "fair go" philosophy that underpins our social fabric.
Written with Respect and Insight.
Abbott writes with a palpable sense of respect for his predecessors on both sides of the aisle. He understands the weight of the office, and that empathy shines through when he describes the difficult choices faced by leaders from Barton to the modern era. His prose is clear, engaging, and devoid of the dry academic tone that often plagues historical texts.
"To understand where we are going, we must cherish where we have come from. This book is a testament to the belief that Australia is, and remains, a beacon of hope and a triumph of the human spirit."
Final Verdict.
Whether you are a political junkie or simply a proud Australian looking to understand the forces that shaped your home, this is essential reading. Tony Abbott has provided a sweeping, panoramic view of our past that manages to be both a critical analysis and a source of immense national pride.
January 8, 2026
I got the audio version of this book, and I’m surprised how much I enjoyed listening to Tony Abbott for 15 hours, giving his take on Australia’s key historical developments.
Whilst I was never a fan of Tony during his political career (particularly due to his stance on climate policy), his love for the country and admiration for our Australian story comes resoundingly through this engaging narrative. His genuine concern for indigenous welfare is also apparent with a significant portion of the book addressing the evolution of indigenous policy.
Most of the high level historical developments in this book I was already familiar with, but I did benefit from a lot of the additonal detail.
I finished the book even more convinced of his central premise that we should be very proud of our national achievements.
My only slightly negative observations are:
- The book is primarily a political history, focusing on the evolution of our political leaders, parties and elections. Unsurprising given the author. It doesn’t address economic, social or sporting history in the same depth
- Much of the text is focused on the history of liberalism and the Liberal Party in Australia - a little too much. Also I have always found “liberal” a confusing term, particularly compared with the current use of the term internationally, particularly in the US. Eg Tony discusses the “protectionist liberals” and the “free trade liberals” in the early 20th century but I was ultimately quite confused by what he actually means by the term “liberal”
Despite that, it was a great book.
Whilst I was never a fan of Tony during his political career (particularly due to his stance on climate policy), his love for the country and admiration for our Australian story comes resoundingly through this engaging narrative. His genuine concern for indigenous welfare is also apparent with a significant portion of the book addressing the evolution of indigenous policy.
Most of the high level historical developments in this book I was already familiar with, but I did benefit from a lot of the additonal detail.
I finished the book even more convinced of his central premise that we should be very proud of our national achievements.
My only slightly negative observations are:
- The book is primarily a political history, focusing on the evolution of our political leaders, parties and elections. Unsurprising given the author. It doesn’t address economic, social or sporting history in the same depth
- Much of the text is focused on the history of liberalism and the Liberal Party in Australia - a little too much. Also I have always found “liberal” a confusing term, particularly compared with the current use of the term internationally, particularly in the US. Eg Tony discusses the “protectionist liberals” and the “free trade liberals” in the early 20th century but I was ultimately quite confused by what he actually means by the term “liberal”
Despite that, it was a great book.
November 25, 2025
As I migrant to Australia, I always enjoy learning about our wonderful country. Tony Abbott has done a great job of helping to add to our knowledge. As one might expect from a former Prime Minister of Australia, his book, Australia – A History – How an ancient land became a democracy, focusses much on the historical development of Australian politics.
In the Author’s Note, Tony Abbott writes, “I am not a professional historian and this is a personal account based on existing sources. My hope is that a history by someone who has tried to shape it, however briefly and imperfectly, could have an appeal that a more academic exercise might lack.” p. 5. The sources are well referenced with a plethora of endnotes for each chapter, the bibliography is well-stocked, and an A-Z index is included to help find where to look in the book for anything from Abbott government to Zeewijk (ship).
Ex-Prime Minister Abbott, thank you for doing the hard yards of research and for giving us a very readable presentation of what has gone into our nation’s becoming a great democracy!
In the Author’s Note, Tony Abbott writes, “I am not a professional historian and this is a personal account based on existing sources. My hope is that a history by someone who has tried to shape it, however briefly and imperfectly, could have an appeal that a more academic exercise might lack.” p. 5. The sources are well referenced with a plethora of endnotes for each chapter, the bibliography is well-stocked, and an A-Z index is included to help find where to look in the book for anything from Abbott government to Zeewijk (ship).
Ex-Prime Minister Abbott, thank you for doing the hard yards of research and for giving us a very readable presentation of what has gone into our nation’s becoming a great democracy!
November 5, 2025
Refreshingly Good.
I would have liked more primary rather than secondary sources. But an excellent breadth of research seems to have gone into writing this.
Some significant omissions in my view, but that’s inevitable.
What struck me most was that Tony Abbott, quite obviously, loves Australia. (Shock horror!). He’s positive, grateful, glad and optimistic. He even conveys a high regard for some of those not aligned with his politics (Hawke, Beasley, Keating not so much).
I read a snarky review calling it a ‘whitewash’ of Australian history. I didn’t regard it so and doubt the reviewer read the book. If you’re wary of a whitewash, my go to on Indigenous issues is Sutton. Worth chasing up.
I would have liked more primary rather than secondary sources. But an excellent breadth of research seems to have gone into writing this.
Some significant omissions in my view, but that’s inevitable.
What struck me most was that Tony Abbott, quite obviously, loves Australia. (Shock horror!). He’s positive, grateful, glad and optimistic. He even conveys a high regard for some of those not aligned with his politics (Hawke, Beasley, Keating not so much).
I read a snarky review calling it a ‘whitewash’ of Australian history. I didn’t regard it so and doubt the reviewer read the book. If you’re wary of a whitewash, my go to on Indigenous issues is Sutton. Worth chasing up.
December 28, 2025
A good single volume history of Australia. A reasonably balanced account. The later chapters bring a little more political perspective and interpretation but nothing too untoward. The Rum Rebellion and the conflict with early merchants and landholders seen through different eyes. A frontier wars acknowledged. Joe Lyons seen in a different light. Menzies well treated. After writing a quite balanced account of Australia's history and emphasising the positives, Abbott looks to the future and his role in shaping it. He is quite entitled to do this. However I remain convinced that he is simply on the wrong track and I am very glad that he is no longer in the parliament. His explanations of recent positions were just not convincing.
January 1, 2026
A Land to Love written by an Ex Prime Minister to restore pride in our history
A very good deep dive into how the Australian experiment produced a nation that we should be proud of and do our best to fight for the freedom’s and benefits that it brings.
On many occasions I enjoyed being able to see the genesis of what I now take for granted.
A very telling final chapter which has both warnings of repainting our history from 1788 as a take over that destroyed this country for all.
Well worth reading and I would say mandatory reading for all young people. This should be taught in all schools and universities.
A very good deep dive into how the Australian experiment produced a nation that we should be proud of and do our best to fight for the freedom’s and benefits that it brings.
On many occasions I enjoyed being able to see the genesis of what I now take for granted.
A very telling final chapter which has both warnings of repainting our history from 1788 as a take over that destroyed this country for all.
Well worth reading and I would say mandatory reading for all young people. This should be taught in all schools and universities.
December 28, 2025
Read it regardless of who you vote for
Excellent, well researched overview of Australia’s history (as expected from a Rhodes scholar). Refreshing reminder of what a great nation we’ve become, how grateful we should be, and how our future can still be bright
Excellent, well researched overview of Australia’s history (as expected from a Rhodes scholar). Refreshing reminder of what a great nation we’ve become, how grateful we should be, and how our future can still be bright
November 26, 2025
Good book
November 27, 2025
Great book.
December 1, 2025
Excellent introduction to the development of modern Australia.
December 21, 2025
Australia … A History lesson
I really enjoyed this read …. Refreshing my memory of Australian history …. Recommend it to all Australian to read …
I really enjoyed this read …. Refreshing my memory of Australian history …. Recommend it to all Australian to read …
January 15, 2026
Yeah ... right.
December 24, 2025
A good, mostly positive, sensibly but sometimes over-nuanced history of Australia for the ordinary person, the intelligent layman. This is probably the style that the history of Australia, in general, should be taught: a positive narrative overall (which is very true) but not hiding the bad, though nonetheless putting in context. Well done Tony. This will likely sell better than other Australian histories, which can at times be a bit too wet and a bit too negative, and fundamentally, a bit too dishonest by being too wet and too negative.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews