Biography of former Australian Prime Minister John Curtin (1885-1945). Curtin was born in the Victorian town of Creswick to Irish parents. He was an avid reader and sportsman. At 19 he was already actively involved in the Labor Party. Elected as Leader of the Labor Party in 1935 he was to become a much admired and courageous leader during the years of World War 2. Foreword by Elsie Macleod, daughter of John Curtin. Includes bibliography and index. Author is a historian and biographer. He was general editor of the 'Australian Dictionary of Biography' from 1975 to 1988.