Retrieving the record: detectives to the fore

A ferocious debate ensued after the publication of Keith Windschuttle's 'The Fabrication of Aboriginal History'. In his book, Windschuttle accuses some of Australia's most respected historians of misquoting and misinterpreting primary sources relating to the colonial history of Tasmania. Most of Windschuttle's detractors, however, focused on the tone and sentiment of his book rather than on his specific allegations. Only a handful of historians are familiar with the relevant archives. Most of those outside the historical profession - be they journalists, politicians or members of the general public - were even less able to make informed comments about Windschuttle's claims because they were unfamiliar with the nature of archival research. [Introduction]