"This third edition of Historical Dictionary of Australia relates the history of this unique and beautiful land, which is home to an amazing range of exotic flora and fauna, a climate that ranges from tropical forests to arid deserts, and the largest single collection of coral reefs and islands in the world. Through a detailed chronology, an introduction, appendixes, a bibliography, and cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant people, places, and events; institutions and organizations; and political, economic, social, cultural, and religious facets, James C. Docherty provides a much-needed single-volume reference on Australia, from its most unpromising beginning as a British jail to the liberal, tolerant democracy it is today."--BOOK JACKET.