TO THE VICTORS GO THE SPOILS

HISTORICAL narrative remains largely the prerogative of victors.

Charles Bean, chosen above some mediocre competition to be Australia’s official World War I historian, made the task his lifelong mission, producing almost single handed a comprehensive, enduring work.

He did so eschewing honours and triumphalism, his other great legacy Australia’s national war memorial in Canberra.

Bean was given unfettered access to official documents, veterans and with his own unique perspective provided the definitive Australian record of WWI.

CLICK LINK to continue reading

Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)