The Eureka Stockade laid the foundation for many aspects of the democratic system that Australia has today - freedom of speech, the right to vote, and political equality.

Marji Hill, author of more than 70 publications, in Shadows of Gold, tells how:

• The discovery of gold in Victoria led to seeds of rebellion.


• The gold rush resulted in a population explosion and was to become Australia's greatest decade in people building with diverse communities and religions, different races, and different ideologies.


• The arrival of the British in Victoria had a catastrophic impact on First Nations people changing the lives of First Nations people forever.


• The gold miners with the discovery of gold in Victoria were politically powerless and stung by daily oppression.


• The stage was set for one of the most dramatic episodes of Australia's history.

If you relish the uncovering of hidden stories, iconic episodes or truth-telling to do with Australia's past, then this beautifully illustrated book and the others in the series are for you.