A unique history of Australia, this reference catalogs 12 disasters that shook the nation and made it what it is today. Documenting debacles ranging from natural disasters to military gaffes and general human stupidity, shortsightedness, and greed, this compilation spotlights the people, ideas, and events that forever scarred Australia. The topics examined include Cyclone Tracy, the great drought, the Ash Wednesday and Black Friday fires, the battle at Flanders in 1917, the fall of Singapore, and the Snowy Mountains scheme. Delving into the background of each event, this comprehensive handbook also illustrates what can be learned from such misfortunes.