Asbestos Nation

‘Asbestos Nation is the definitive account of the promise and tragedy of asbestos in Australian history. In this gripping and deeply researched book, James Watson reveals the excitement and optimism that attached to asbestos, the growing awareness of its risks and dangers, and the ways that communities, corporations, and governments responded to the devastation it wrought. This is a powerful cultural history of a deadly substance that has destroyed thousands of Australian lives.’ Michelle Arrow, Professor of Modern History at Macquarie University and author of The Seventies

‘A meticulous and disturbing account of Australia’s complex relationship with asbestos… Watson lays bare the corporate chicanery and the leaden and feeble government response. In the twenty-first century, multinational corporate behemoths continue to inflict harm on many of us. Asbestos Nation is a salutary reminder that citizens and workers banding together to take action are critical to fighting back. Highly recommended.’ Josh Bornstein, Director, Corporate Regulation, at The Australia Institute and author of Working for the Brand

‘With the humour and anger characteristic of an excellent storyteller, this brilliantly researched history extends our best thinking on politics, race, settler colonialism, class, women and domesticity, masculinity and modernity, labour and unions, the law and compensation, medical discovery, mining, manufacturing, marketing, and even urban planning. The result is a deep, rich account of one of Australia’s most dangerous – and most prolific – commodities.’ Hannah Forsyth, Adjunct Associate Professor of History at the University of New England and author of Virtue Capitalists

‘Strips away illusions… A masterclass in historical storytelling by an award-winning historian. It is indispensable reading for all Australians.’ David Lee, Associate Professor of History at the University of New South Wales and author of The Second Rush: Mining and the Transformation of Australia