How war fired up indigenous soldiers, and Japanese espionage - fact or fiction?
Apr 27, 2026•54 min
Episode description
Indigenous soldiers who fought in WW felt betrayed when they returned, then formed the first radical Aboriginal political organisation. And, before the Pacific War, Australia had a strong business relationship with Japan. But were there spies in the mix?
Guests:
- John Maynard, historian, author, Emeritus Professor at Newcastle University. Contributor to the book ‘Challenging Anzac: stories that don’t fit the legend’ (NewSouth)
- Nick Hordern, author, former diplomat, former policy advisor, former journalist. New book ‘Loyalty: Australians, Japanese and Espionage, on the eve of the Pacific War’ (Australian Scholarly Publishing)
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