Australia's Military History For Dummies

The simple and easy way to get your mind around Australia's military history. More people are visiting Gallipoli and walking the Kokoda Trail each year. Now, find out why. This complete guide helps you trace the story of Australia's involvement in war, from the colonial conflicts with the Indigenous population, through the World Wars to peacekeeping initiatives in East Timor and the controversial conflict in Afghanistan.

Australia's Military History For Dummies offers:

• Insights into the origins of Australia's military history, going all the way back to the arrival of the First Fleet and the conflicts with Indigenous peoples.
• A look into the heroism of the Anzacs, discovering the origins of the legend of Gallipoli, and how the brass bungled the campaign.
• A consideration of the horrors of war, reflecting on the suffering and huge losses on the Western Front.
• Recognition of the successful battles of World Wars I and II, as you follow the Diggers' exploits in Palestine and Syria, and at Tobruk and Alamein.
• Marvel at the grim jungle battles, tracking the Diggers through New Guinea, Borneo, Malaya, and Vietnam between 1942 and 1972.
• Admire Australia's efforts to repel possible invaders, learning about the defence against the Japanese during World War II.
• An exploration of how the Cold War heated up, witnessing the fight against communism in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
• Recognition of the modern-day Australian Defence Force, acknowledging the courage of the men and women who protect us into the 21st century.

Open the book and find:

• New insights into the meaning of Anzac Day.
• Simple explanations of the structure of Australia's military.
• Details on who fought whom, where, when, and why.
• Stories of Australia's great military fighters and leaders.
• Accounts of the iconic battles that established Australia's reputation.
• Locations of Australia's peacekeeping operations around the world.
• Ways in which war and conflict have shaped the nation.
• Reasons why Australia goes to war.

Learn to:

• Comprehend the impact of war on Australia.
• Appreciate the heroism at Anzac Cove and other significant battlefields.
• Understand the controversies of recent conflicts, including in Vietnam and Iraq.