This is the history and human story of Chinese Australians;who are today a significant ethnic group in Australia and an influential element in the nation’s politics;economy and culture. Over two centuries;the Chinese came – from mostly poor peasants fleeing the decaying Qing dynasty to largely middle-class migrants from the ascendant regime of Ji Xinping. The Chinese-Australian story is one of dreams pursued or lost; of love and unlikely friendships; of triumphs and heartbreaks; of racism and resilience;vulnerability and strength. Emilia Tagaza masterfully weaves together extensive historical research;vivid personal stories;and incisive political analysis to illuminate the lives behind the statistics and the headlines;amid shifting domestic politics and turbulent global relations. This is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand Australia’s past;present;and future through the lens of one of its most enduring and dynamic communities.