Supreme federalist : the political life of Sir John Downer

John William Downer (1843-1915) was a member of a remarkable generation in Australia's political history, and the founder of one of Australia's political dynasties. Born in Adelaide, he was the fifth child and fourth son of Henry Downer, a tailor, and his wife Jane.

Supreme Federalist exposes the intricacies of politics at the time of Australia's transition from the colonial era to the modern federal nation. Sir John Downer (1843-1915), founder of a political dynasty, combined strong conservative values with a liberal approach; championing legal reform, the advancement of the rights of women and children, and opposing the White Australia Policy.

Contents: Chapter 1. A political journey begins, Chapter 2. From backbench to the ministry, Chapter 3. Federal beginnings and first colonial setback, Chapter 4. Premier of South Australia, Chapter 5. Imperial honour and colonial rejection, Chapter 6. Colonial opposition and federal convention, Chapter 7. A brief second term, Chapter 8. Adversity and achievement, Chapter 9. Responsible and arduous duties: the draft bill's progress, Chapter 10. From colony to commonwealth, Chapter 11. Federal expectations and reality, Chapter 12. An Indian summer.