There exists an eternal and unshakeable fear within the Australian populace of those who come here from elsewhere seeking a better life. This fear is nothing new, writes Mike Stuchbery.
Columns / Lessons in History
Old answers to new questions with historian Mike Stuchbery.
Leaders who have ‘fallen on their sword’
With Gordon Brown’s resignation following the UK Election, there’s much talk of the man having “fallen on his sword”. But Brown got off lightly compared to samurai days, writes Mike Stuchbery.
Getting off on the public buck is Kryptonite to pollies
As Troy Buswell knows, a political career can survive the odd bit of biff. It can (unfortunately) survive the occasional outbreak of sexist or racist behaviour. But it rarely survives a sex scandal.
The little Aussie battler who’s heading for sainthood
So, we’ve got ourselves a saint. As an Australian, an educational professional and a fan of giving the boss a hard time, I say ‘Onya, Mary!’ says Mike Stuchbery.
Fascism in British politics
Despite the prominence of Nick Griffin of the BNP
Disappearing politicians
Those holding civic office have had a distinct tendency to wander off into parts unknown. Does power drive a man (or woman) into the yonder? History writer Mike Stutchbery investigates.
What we can learn from WW2 health reform
Until the 1940s, healthcare was more privilege than right. Were you be able to pull a few groats together, you might be able to get a doctor to bleed your ills away.
What Iran can teach us about church and state
The nation we know today as Iran arose out of squabbling Aryan tribespeople (hence the name, ‘Iran’), into a series of empires and regimes, writes Mike Stuchbery.
What we can learn from… bushrangers
As long as there has been a geographical protruberance referred to as “Australia”, the inhabitants have delighted in the exploits of thieves, thugs, standover men and murderers.
What we can learn from Great Depression hobos
One of the most effective ways to ease the burden during a financial crisis is to share – both resources and knowledge, writes Mike Stuchbery.
Lessons in History: what we can learn from… the Spanish flu
Monkey blood and projectile vomiting — yes, the Spanish flu makes Swine Flu sound like a delightful picnic. But there are many scary similarities between the virii. A lesson in history from Mike Stuchbery.
