"Australia is not a lucky country by chance. Every Australian today is a beneficiary of what our forebears built. Living in one of the safest, most egalitarian and prosperous nations in the world, Australians have an advantage that citizens of many other countries could never imagine."
This book is divided into five parts. Part One discusses the extent of colonialism in the world at the time of the First Fleet, the significance of slavery, the composition of the membership of the First Fleet and the journey itself. Part Two argues that had Australia and its allies lost the world wars, Aboriginals could have faced persecution and possible extinction. Part Three examines Aboriginal life at the time of settlement, the impact of introduced diseases and dispossession, and the role of missionaries. Part Four covers the 'stolen generation' and compensation for dispossession and its lasting effects. Part Five discusses moral and social concerns, 'closing the gap,' the Uluru Statement, the Aboriginal flag, and efforts for a better future. "Our Australia Day is a thoughtful and logical recapturing of the importance of Australia Day for all Australian citizens, told by a descendant of the First Fleet. Julian Lucas provides a factual argument for a more balanced view about the settlement of Australia.
