Victoria – Suffering to Statehood provides intriguing, and occasionally poignant, details of history not generally found in most Australian history books. Every detail of this fascinating book; political, social and economic, is carefully researched and annotated. The author delves into the actions of Victoria’s founders to determine their personalities and motives. Particular emphasis is placed on the pathos of Australia’s first occupants and their unfair, and often brutal history, at the hands of the settlers. Michael Rucker is a world traveller and historian who became captivated by Australian history while residing in Melbourne. His research into the colourful characters who founded Australia and, in particular Victoria, led to his detailed research for this thoughtful and informative volume. His narrative moves along at a dramatic and exciting pace. He applauds the characters accomplishments and chastises them as appropriate.
