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The era between the wars was one of prosperity. The Roaring Twenties saw the development of the film and radio industries. Australia could boast of having the best cricketers and arguably, the best racehorse. But it would not last. The collapse of the stock market heralded the worldwide Depression and by the time the economy recovered, another generation of young men were enlisting for war. Carroll traces the major themes of Australian life over the decades of prosperity and penury. Illustrated with black and white photographs -
Follows Australia's economic history from the first days when the convict settlement was totally dependent on supplies brought by sea until James Ruse, John McArthur and others proved that civilisation and husbandry were possible and profitable. The escape of the cattle of the First Fleet was at first a disappointment which became proof of the possibilities when their progeny were discovered at the Cowpastures. Meanwhile, the rum trade was developing both cash flow and the seeds of rebellion. The discovery of gold and the development of mercantilism added to the drive that opened up the interior and the mining of coal and other minerals on which the basis of Australia's economy was laid. The pre-Federation relatuions between the States, the cylic booms and depression the influence of war and the inflow of foreign capital are also factored in to our modern development. Lavishly illustrated with photographs and contemporary art showing our history - both the big events and the everyday.
