Published to mark the Centenary of Federation, this comprehensive and accessible book explores Australia's national origins. Starting from the perspective of the individual colonies as they made their way toward membership of the Australian Commonwealth in 1901, the book also provides short alphabetical entries covering key events, people and concepts. It approaches Federation not simply as a formal political story, but as a social and cultural process, highlighting ongoing debates about democracy, sovereignty and citizenry. A major and important reference book.