Dreamers and Schemers

A landmark book – the first full political history of Australia In this compelling and comprehensive work, renowned historian Frank Bongiorno presents a social and cultural history of Australia’s political life, from pre-settlement Indigenous systems to the present day.

Depicting a wonderful parade of dreamers and schemers, Bongiorno surveys moments of political renewal and sheds fresh light on our democratic life. From local pubs and meeting halls to the parliament and cabinet; from pamphleteers and stump orators to party agents and operatives – this enthralling account looks at the political insiders in the halls of power, as well as the agitators and outsiders who sought to shape the nation from the margins.

A work of political history like no other, Dreamers and Schemers will transform the way you look at Australian politics.

‘With acuity and grace, Bongiorno divines the soul of the nation … All told with a cheeky eye for detail and nose for skullduggery by a historian in full archival, narrative and rhetorical flight. A landmark work’ —Clare Wright

‘Bongiorno is one of our premier historians and this is his masterwork. An original take on our politics and people, written with an open mind and warm Australian heart.’ —George Megalogenis Awards for Dreamers and Schemers Winner, ACT Book of the Year Award 2023 Winner, Henry Mayer Book Prize 2023 Shortlisted, Australian History Prize in the 2023 NSW Premier's History Awards Shortlisted, Educational Publishing Awards Australia, Scholarly Book of the Year Award 2023 Longlisted, Australian Political Book of the Year Award 2023 Highly commended, Ernest Scott Prize 2023