Recognizing Aboriginal Title: The Mabo Case and Indigenous Resistance to English-Settler Colonialism (Heritage)

I am only half way through the book (it arrived only last week). So far I find it interesting and thought provoking. The writing could perhaps be smoother, but this is no big complaint. Russell writes from the perspective of a Canadian well versed in the colonial histories of the former British colonies and how colonization impacted native populations. He also gives a great overview of the history of European colonialism/imperialism from the 15th to the 20th centuries. This provides context for the how the concept of 'terra nullius' was applied to the settlement of Australian and the subsequent attitude of Australia's state and federal government's towards Aboriginal land rights and claims. Russell's book is an important aid for people trying to come to grips with 'reconciliation' in 21st century Australia.