The History of Australia: Bush, Gold, and Cities

The History of Australia traces a vast timeline, from the land’s geological roots in the supercontinent Gondwana through to the vibrant changes of the mid-1900s. You’ll journey alongside the First Peoples, learning about their early migrations, kinship systems, and the deeply spiritual Dreaming tradition that shaped their way of life. As European exploration and settlement unfold, the narrative follows the First Fleet, the convict era, and the frontier conflicts that exposed profound divides between Aboriginal groups and colonial powers.

Readers will discover how gold rushes, pastoral expansion, and urban growth reshaped the economy and society. They will also explore Federation, the White Australia policy, and Australia’s evolving role on the world stage through two world wars. Alongside major turning points—such as the Anzac legend, post-war immigration, and cultural movements—the book unpacks how government policies, economic booms, and persistent inequalities laid the groundwork for modern Australia. Spanning thousands of years, The History of Australia blends ancient traditions, colonial struggles, and emerging national identity into one compelling story of a continent and its people.