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John Curtin’s War Volume II, described as ‘a huge and highly accessible contribution to Australian political history’ by the SMH, is a magisterial biography by John Edwards of Australia’s greatest Prime Minister. The book concludes with the events that shaped the nation’s future – being at war, forging a new relationship with the United States, and Curtin’s untimely death just before victory.

The first volume of the series was hailed as ‘a landmark in Australian political biography’ by The Australian and ‘remarkable’ by the AFR. It ends with the fall of Singapore and a pivotal realignment of Australia’s position in the global stage.

In the second volume, titled ‘Triumph and Decline’, the full story of the next four years is told. Curtin leads Australia through meeting its enemies and embracing its new ally, personified by the confident General Douglas MacArthur. While Churchill prioritizes the European front, Curtin and MacArthur work to ensure that the War in the Pacific is a focal point for the Americans.

Key battles like the Coral Sea and Midway shape Australia’s destiny and the Kokoda Track creates a new legend. Curtin’s determined leadership amidst party conflicts raises him to the status of ‘Australia’s leader’. However, his outward strength masks deteriorating health and growing doubts about the American alliance. Curtin, who defined Australia’s future, leaves us to ponder what might have been had he survived.

‘Triumph and Decline’ completes Edwards’ masterpiece and solidifies John Curtin’s legacy as the greatest Prime Minister in Australian history.