A Source Book of Australian History   By: Gwendolen H. [Compiler] Swinburne

Gwendolen H. Swinburne's "A Source Book of Australian History" is a comprehensive and invaluable compilation of historical documents that provide readers with a deeper insight into the rich tapestry of Australian history. As a compiler, Swinburne has done a commendable job in curating a diverse range of sources that shed light on various aspects of the nation's past.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its extensive coverage of primary sources, including letters, diaries, newspaper articles, and official government reports. These documents offer a firsthand account of key events and significant moments, allowing readers to witness history unfold through the eyes of those who experienced it. Swinburne's meticulous selection ensures that the sources are not only historically significant but also representative of different perspectives and voices, contributing to a more balanced portrayal of Australia's past.

The arrangement of the source material is thoughtful and well organized. Swinburne divides the book into thematic sections, such as exploration and settlement, colonial society, immigration, and Indigenous history. This structure makes it easy for readers to navigate and locate specific topics of interest. Moreover, each section is accompanied by informative introductions that provide crucial context to the documents, enhancing the readers' understanding of the historical significance of each source.

The book also benefits from Swinburne's insightful commentary connecting the various sources. Her annotations provide valuable explanations, highlighting key themes, and drawing connections between different events and individuals. This helps readers grasp the broader narrative and appreciate the interconnectedness of Australian history. Furthermore, Swinburne's astute analysis adds depth and interpretation to the source material without overshadowing or biasing the original accounts.

Although the book primarily focuses on the colonial period in Australia's history, it does touch upon the significant political, social, and cultural developments in the 20th century. However, some readers might find that the later sections lack the same level of depth and breadth as the earlier ones. Nonetheless, given the extensive time span covered in the book, this limitation could be attributed to space constraints rather than a lack of effort on Swinburne's part.

As a complementary resource for students, researchers, or even those with a general interest in Australian history, "A Source Book of Australian History" proves to be an essential and well-curated anthology. Swinburne's careful selection, meticulous arrangement, and informative annotations make this book an indispensable reference for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Australia's past. This compilation ensures that the voices of the past are preserved and their stories are told, offering readers a unique perspective on the nation's evolving identity.

First Page:

The number of events described in a Source Book must necessarily be smaller than that in histories of another type; but the aim is to place the student in contact with the evidence of history in order that he may become his own historian by drawing his own deductions from the contemporary records. The greatest historian can find no materials ulterior to such as are here presented, for there is nothing ulterior to them but the deeds themselves. They are the records written by the men who gave their life and health to lay the foundation of Australia's greatness by Phillip, weakening under the racking cares of the infant state; by Sturt in the scorching desert, as the last duty of an exhausting day. They are aglow with the heat of action; they are inspiring in their quiet modesty and strength... Continue reading book >>