Leading commentators from a range of disciplines consider the history and future of indigenous rights.For most of Australia's colonial history its indigenous peoples have been denied full membership of Australian society. This book examines the history of their citizenship status and asks, Is it possible for indigenous Australians to be members of a common society on equal terms with others? Leading commentators from a range of disciplines examine historical conceptions of indigenous civil rights, consider issues arising from recent struggles for equality and consider possibilities for multicultural citizenship that recognise difference.For most of Australia's colonial history its indigenous peoples have been denied full membership of Australian society. This book examines the history of their citizenship status and asks, Is it possible for indigenous Australians to be members of a common society on equal terms with others? Leading commentators from a range of disciplines examine historical conceptions of indigenous civil rights, consider issues arising from recent struggles for equality and consider possibilities for multicultural citizenship that recognise difference.For most of Australia's colonial history its indigenous people have been denied full membership in Australian society. This book examines the history of their citizenship status and asks whether it is possible for indigenous Australians to be members of a common society on equal terms with others. Leading commentators from a range of disciplines examine historical conceptions of indigenous civil rights, consider issues arising from recent struggles for equality and consider possibilities for multicultural citizenship that recognize difference.1. Introduction Nicolas Peterson and Will Sanders; Part I. Historical Conceptions: 2. Nineteenth century bureaucratic constructions of indigenous identities in New South Wales Marilyn Wood; 3. From nomadism to citizenship: A. P. Elkin and Aboriginal advancement GlãF