Russel Braddock WardAM (9 November 1914 – 1995) was an Australian historian best known as the author of The Australian Legend (1958), an examination of the development of the "Australian character".
Russel Braddock WardAM (9 November 1914 – 1995) was an Australian historian best known as the author of The Australian Legend (1958), an examination of the development of the "Australian character".
In his book, 'The Australian Legend' (colloquially known as Legend), Ward argued that the Australian bush was egalitarian and that this influenced Australian culture. Ward's book was both influential and controversial and is grouped among the classic historical references on Australia history. In the 40 years since its first publication there were three editions and it has been reprinted 15 times. While the images of the Australian character in Legend may not seem to reflect modern views, it is a book that "inform[s] Australians about the forces that have shaped them", and it raises questions that continue to be debated.
Members of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Maori communities are advised that this catalogue contains names and images of deceased people. All users of the catalogue should also be aware that certain words, terms or descriptions may be culturally sensitive and may be considered inappropriate today, but may have reflected the author's/creator's attitude or that of the period in which they were written.