The Young Man From Home: James Balfour 1830 - 1913 by Andrew Lemon

Book Description

Secondhand. Very good condition. Minor wear to book edges. Small mark on top foredge. Dust jacket has fading to spine. Light creasing to dust jacket top edge.

James Balfour (1830-1913) was a politician and prominent businessman, newspaper proprietor, pastoralist, philanthropist and Presbyterian layman.

Some saw him as a model of worldly success inspired by Christian virtue. Others were less impressed. Melbourne's Truth called him 'the kingpin of Victorian Presbyterianism ... the keystone of the whole Wowsertic edifice'

The wowser and the land boomer are central figures in Victoria's history and mythology. The Author through access to Balfour's extensive personal papers has brought us very close to a man who fits both stereotypes and yet is typical of neither.

This biography follows Balfour's Scottish childhood, the fluctuating fortunes of his business empire in Melbourne, his intricate business and personal relationships with the Henty family, the expansion of his pastoral interests in the Riverina, his key role in the political crisis of the 1860s and 1870s, his constant campaigning on moral issues. Investigations of his activities during the land boom of the 180s and of his association with many of the most notorious figures throw light on the prevailing commercial ethics. (book flap)

Includes bibliography and index.