Designed as an 'ideal city' and emblem of the nation, Canberra has long been a source of ambivalence for many Australians. In this charming and concise book, Nicholas Brown challenges these ideas and looks beyond the cliches to illuminate the unique, layered and often colourful history of Australia's capital. Brown covers Canberra's selection as the site of the national capital, the turbulent path of Walter Burley Griffin's plan for the city and the many phases of its construction. He surveys citizens' diverse experiences of the city, the impact of the Second World War on Canberra's growth and explores the city's political history with insight and wit. A History of Canberra is informed by the interplay of three themes central to Canberra's identity: government, community and environment. Canberra's distinctive social and cultural history as a centre for the public service and national institutions is vividly rendered.

In this charming and concise book, Nicholas Brown looks beyond the cliches to illuminate the colourful history of Australia's capital.

About the Author
Nicholas Brown is an associate professor in the School of History, Australian National University, a position he held concurrently from 2008-2013 with a senior research fellowship in the Centre for Historical Research, National Museum of Australia.


Book Information
ISBN 9781107646094
Author Nicholas Brown
Format Paperback
Page Count 296
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 380g
Dimensions(mm) 215mm * 137mm * 15mm