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"1942 was a key year in Australia's history. For the first time, it seemed that young White Australia, an outpost of empire clinging to the edge of the world, was about to be invaded by the Japanese. In that one year, Darwin was bombed, submarines torpedoed ships in Sydney Harbour and brave militiamen died on the Kokoda Trail. Each year, more and more Australians celebrate Anzac Day and honour the lives of those who fought. There is even a push to create a new public holiday, in remembrance and celebration of the battle for Australia. But was there ever really such a battle, and how close did Australia actually come to being invaded? Invading Australia provides a comprehensive, thorough and well-argued answer to these and other questions. Peter Stanley examines the history of Australian attitudes to Japan before, during and after World War II, and uses archival sources to show that Japan scrapped any invasion plans early in 1942, although the propaganda war on both sides perpetuated the belief that invasion was still likely. He also shows that there never was any particular battle for Australia, but rather a worldwide fight for freedom and democracy that has allowed the West to enjoy great prosperity in the decades since 1945."--Provided by publisher.