America and Americans in Australia

Mosler and Catley show Australia as migrant Americans see it, warts and all! They begin with an examination of the evolution of the United States as a major dominant power in the international system, emphasizing the duality of its external power coupled with its troubled and variegated society-the greatest wealth coexisting with some of the world’s most difficult cities. But, as they point out, very few people emigrate from this melting pot, and many of those that do leave go to Australia. They are seeking employment, adventure, and, for some, a refuge from the difficult aspects of American life.

The more than 250,000 Americans who have gone to Australia since WWII are mostly well-qualified professional people who have developed good life styles and contribute significantly to many aspects of Australian life. But some, particularly women, are also dissatisifed and describe varying degrees of anti- Americanism, despite Australia being among the most receptive of societies to American ideas and culture. Americans also tend to bring their political orientations with them. Many are now becoming Australians whose children want to stay. Australia is only a bit further than California and it brings its own surprises. Relying on survey data, interviews, and their own experiences, Mosler and Catley provide answers to many questions about the American-Australian connection.