Blood on the Wattle; Massacres and maltreatment of Aboriginal Australians
Blood on the Wattle: Massacres and Maltreatment of Aboriginal Australians Since 1788 by Bruce Elder is one of the most influential and confronting books ever written about Australia's colonial history.
First published in 1988 and now in its third edition, Blood on the Wattle documents the violence, dispossession and systemic mistreatment experienced by Aboriginal people following British invasion. Drawing on historical records, eyewitness accounts, government documents and extensive research, Bruce Elder brings to light stories that were often overlooked, minimised or excluded from mainstream Australian history.
Rather than focusing solely on dates and events, the book explores the human impact of colonisation, detailing frontier conflict, massacres, forced removals and the resilience of Aboriginal communities who survived despite immense hardship. It challenges readers to engage honestly with Australia's past and better understand how historical events continue to shape contemporary Australia.
For many Australians, Blood on the Wattle has become an important starting point for learning about truth-telling and the realities of frontier violence. While confronting at times, it remains an essential resource for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Aboriginal history and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
About the Author
Bruce Elder is an Australian journalist, author and historian whose work has focused extensively on Australian social history, culture and Indigenous affairs. His research for Blood on the Wattle helped bring broader public attention to aspects of Australia's colonial history that had previously received limited recognition.
A significant and thought-provoking read, Blood on the Wattle continues to be widely regarded as an important contribution to Australia's understanding of its shared history.
Pages: 384
