Australia 1942 In the Shadow of War

In 1942, the shadow of modern war reached Australia's shores for the first time. In this compelling volume, leading historians explore why 1942 was such a pivotal year in Australia's history and explain how the nation confronted some of its greatest challenges. This broad ranging study covers key issues from political, economic and home front reform to the establishment of a new partnership with the United States; the role of the Air Force and the Navy; the bombing of Darwin; as well as the battles of Kokoda, Milne Bay, the Beachheads and Guadalcanal. Australia 1942 provides a unique and in-depth exploration of the controversy surrounding the potential for invasion. Japanese and Australian historians offer perspectives on Japanese military intentions and strategies towards Australia and the South Pacific. Generously illustrated, it is essential reading for anyone interested in one of Australia's most decisive and critical years.

Introduction; Part I. Australia in 1942: 1. Australia in 1942: a pivotal year? David Horner; Part II. Relations, Politics and the Home Front: 2. World wars and the anticipation of conflict: the impact on long-established Australian Japanese relations 1905–43 Pam Oliver; 3. The overlooked mission: Australia and home defence Albert Palazzo; 4. The home front and the American presence in 1942 Kate Darian-Smith; 5. The 'dangers and problems unprecendented and unpredictable': the Curtin government's response to the threat Ross McMullin; Part III. Australia Under Threat: 6. The Japanese Army's 'unplanned' South Pacific campaign Hiroyuki Shindo; 7. Japanese strategy and intentions toward Australia Steve Bullard; 8. The air raids on Darwin, 19 February 1942: image and reality Alan Powell; Part IV. The War on Australia's Doorstep: 9. Vanquished but defiant; victorious but divided - the RAAF in the Pacific 1942 Mark Johnston; 10. The war at sea - on, above and below the waves Ian Pfennigwerth; 11. On Australia's doorstep: Kokoda and Milne Bay Karl James; 12. Anzacs and Yanks: US and Australian operations at the beachhead battles Peter J. Dean; Conclusion: 1942 in reflection.

In 1942, the shadow of war reached Australia's shores. This compelling volume explores how the nation confronted some of its greatest challenges in this pivotal year - political and economic reform, the role of the Air Force and the Navy, the bombing of Darwin and the battles of Kokoda and Milne Bay.