"Since the first fleet of 1788, the Irish have been coming to Australia. They were the beginning of a central, colourful and profoundly influential element in Australia's evolution into a nation different and separate from Britain.

Commencing with Irish convicts, feared and despised - 'nearly as wild themselves as the cattle' - following free Irish immigrants - and settlers into the often hostile texture of colonial life, they came to see themselves as patriotic Australians, integrating into all levels and facets of national life and character, many occupying the highest positions in the land in government, law and commerce.".

"This edition features a revised final chapter, which deals with the changing relationship between Australians, new Irish and Irish Australians. In examining these changes, Patrick O'Farrell considers the effect of major government initiatives associated with the policies of multiculturalism introduced in Australia from the 1970s."--BOOK JACKET.